The Comprehensive Guide to Assisted Living Services
Depression is common among older adults, with 7 million people over 65 contending with it annually. Loneliness and isolation play a key role in this health issue, so joining a senior living community can reduce risk by fostering connection.
But what services are provided at assisted living centers? What do these communities do? Read on to learn the ins and outs of senior care so your loved one can get the help they need to thrive as they grow older.
What Are Assisted Living Services?
Assisted living is a type of residential living for seniors. These live-in communities are similar to apartment complexes, but they offer more support for older adults. From accessibility features to assistance with daily tasks, there are many ways that these locations can help residents thrive.
The aim of an assisted living center is to provide elderly care that enhances quality of life. Compassionate and caring professionals will provide companionship, help, and care to those residing there. They also will offer community services that keep seniors active and social.
Services Provided at Assisted Living Centers
Senior living centers provide a wide range of elderly care services.
Employees will help residents with daily tasks that they struggle to perform. Cleaning, food prep, medication management, bathing, and bathroom assistance are all common tasks. However, since the needs of different seniors vary, the services offered will depend on how independently your loved one is capable of living.
Social and communal services include game nights and community meals. These services aim to let seniors socialize and make friends, decreasing the risk of isolation, loneliness, and depression.
Exercise groups, dance, classes, and yoga meet-ups can also keep seniors flexible and mobile as the body ages. It can boost muscle mass so that they can remain as physically independent as possible.
Services are also available to help seniors leave most living centers for errands and outings. Transportation to and from parks and grocery stores is a common provision. Many communities also offer plans that let companions shop for necessary household items and groceries for the person who's incapable of doing so independently.
Another of the most important assisted living services is memory and cognitive help. Board game nights and puzzles are fun and intellectually stimulating. They can help boost cognition as well as socialization.
There is even more help for those developing dementia, Alzheimer's, or Parkinson's. Communities can help create schedules and remind seniors of important daily tasks.
Types of Senior Living Communities
The services you receive depend heavily on the type of elderly living community you choose for yourself or your loved one.
Assisted living is the most common type of community that seniors join. There, they get help with all the tasks they need assistance with, from bathing to dressing. They can also enjoy activities and social events.
Mental and physical health are priorities in assisted living spaces. Staff monitor residents and provide support when needed. Individual care plans are also a priority.
There are also memory care facilities for those who have cognitive and memory-related problems. These are designed for those with Alzheimer's, dementia, and similar disabilities. The staff is specially trained to stimulate these individuals cognitively and work with them effectively.
Respite care is another type of senior living community. While other types of assistance are intended for long-term help, respite care is a short-term care option. It's primarily meant for those recovering from accidents and surgery who need care for a finite length of time.
Consider your loved one's needs when selecting a plan. Talk with them about the type of help they think they need. They likely have ideas on how to make their lives better, so listen actively and take their opinions to heart.
Then, ask nurses and other professionals in the assisted living community what type of care they think is necessary and go from there. Reputable providers can help you pick the right care plan while providing tips for a smooth transition.
Amenities
Many seniors are resistant to the idea of assisted living and want to remain at home. Unfortunately, many homes are not equipped to accommodate mobility issues. Home care for those with cognitive problems or limited memory is expensive, which makes assisted living the only option in many cases.
Luckily, with a good community, this can be even more comfortable than aging in place.
First, assisted living centers are made to accommodate people with disabilities. Open floor plans, single-floor living spaces, minimal steps, wide doorways, and handlebar railings are all available. There's a lower likelihood of injury or discomfort.
However, the apartments in a quality community also feel just like home. One-bedroom and suite apartments are also available, as are two-bedroom apartments. At Addington Place, amenities include:
- A kitchenette with a refrigerator, freezer, and microwave
- Window treatments
- Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
- Cable TV
- Garbage removal
- Full furnishing
- Pet-friendly accommodations
Seniors don't need to sacrifice their comfort for a higher quality of life.
You also won't need to pay for costly safety features in your loved one's home. Bathrooms in senior living facilities already have grab bars, walk-in showers, and non-slip mats. The entire community is well-lit and uses easy accessibility features like automatic doors and wheelchair ramps.
You can get your loved one the care they need, the comfortable amenities they want, and the community they need at an affordable price.
Get Quality Senior Care for Your Loved One
Now that you know the ins and outs of senior living communities, it's time to begin taking advantage of the many services provided at assisted living centers.
Addington Place of Des Moines is proud to offer quality care to Iowa families looking to boost their loved one's quality of life. We offer beautiful, private apartments with top-notch amenities as well as round-the-clock care. We also have scheduled transportation, emergency maintenance, in-room dining, fitness programming, and more. We're here to help you or your loved ones get the most out of the golden years. Reach out to our team to hear more specifics about our services and their benefits.