Your mother struggles with getting dressed. Your father can no longer keep his house clean. When your loved one has trouble with daily activities, it’s time to discuss additional care.
Many older adults are resistant to the idea of assisted living. In a recent survey, 80% of seniors responded that they wanted to receive care at home. For many people, the cost of in-home care, coupled with the continued maintenance of their homes, is not feasible.
The top reasons people move into assisted living are:
- failing health
- inability to drive
- financial crisis
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted living facilities are not nursing homes. They do not provide the same level of medical care. Nursing homes are for people who need around-the-clock care. Assisted living’s focus lies on keeping your loved one as independent as possible.
What does assisted living mean, then?
Let’s address four misconceptions many seniors have about moving into assisted living.
1. I’ll lose my independence.
Many seniors think moving into an assisted living community will deprive them of independence. Assisted living does just the opposite. Instead, it takes care of the things holding your loved one back.
One of the benefits of assisted living is its attention to personal care. Your loved one will no longer have to maintain themselves or their living space alone. Aid with hygiene, laundry, and housekeeping lets your loved one regain their freedom.
With basic care in the hands of trained staff, your loved one will be able to make the most of life in assisted living.
2. I’ll be bored. I’ll be inactive.
Moving into assisted living is a transition, especially if it means moving away from family and treasured spaces. Your loved one may worry about how they’ll fill their days. In assisted living, they may be busier than ever.
Assisted living communities host frequent events and gatherings. On-site activities may range from exercise classes to craft sessions. Many communities also offer excursions like shopping trips or even hikes. As your loved one participates, they will connect with other residents and find new pastimes to enjoy.
Participating in regular activities will help your loved one maintain a healthy body and mind. Read more about how assisted living enhances seniors’ quality of life here.
3. It’s too expensive for me.
Many people believe paying an in-home caregiver will be less expensive than paying for assisted living. For some, this may be true. However, depending on how much care your loved one needs, assisted living may be a more cost-effective and comforting option.
If your loved one receives in-home care, they will continue to pay expenses such as:
- Mortgage/rent
- Maintenance costs
- Property taxes
- Lawn services
- Trash services
- Groceries
Assisted living residents don’t have to worry about home or property maintenance. Your loved one will pay for rent, food, and care together—in one affordable bill.
Explore the costs of in-home care and assisted living in this article.
4. It won’t feel like home.
An assisted living apartment may not be able to take the place of your loved one’s home. It does, however, give them a chance to bring their most meaningful possessions with them.
Home is what you make it. Let your loved one know that they can bring their favorite piece of furniture, family pictures, and trinkets with them. You can help your loved one decorate their assisted living apartment to make it feel cozy and warm.
You should encourage your loved one to bring hobby-related items, too. Whether it’s a basket of yarn, music player, or canvas easel, your loved one doesn’t have to give these items up in the move. Cherished belongings will help your loved one adjust to their new space.
Do you want to learn more about the benefits of assisted living?
Contact Culpepper Place today to learn about our assisted living services and our vibrant community in Olive Branch, MS.
