Seniors looking to preserve some independence may find assisted living a good option. There are many benefits to assisted living. Residents can continue to enjoy their hobbies and interests in a home-like setting. Additionally, assisted living facilities offer residents many life enrichment opportunities. It is important to consider many factors when choosing an assisted-living facility.
Assisted Living is a viable option
It's a significant decision to select an assisted living community. It isn't just about the price - many factors will play a role in the decision, including how much the facility costs, how convenient it is, and whether it's in a good location. Assisted living is often covered by long-term care insurance, although Medicare doesn't cover the cost. Alternately, Medicaid, the federal/state program that provides health care for people with low incomes or assets, might cover the cost of assisted-living.
Assisted living is an option for seniors who cannot live independently or require assistance with daily tasks. Assistive living communities enable residents to live independently while being supported in their daily activities. One of my past clients was having trouble cooking healthy meals at home. She missed being with other people. Her new environment had a dining area that was shared with other residents. This allowed her to retain a sense of independence and community.
It allows seniors the freedom to live independently
Assisted living is an option for people who need help with daily activities but still want to maintain their independence. It can give them a sense of dignity and identity that will allow them to live a more fulfilling life. This lifestyle also provides the benefit of being part of a group of senior citizens who are like-minded.
Assisted living typically includes a monthly fee that covers housekeeping and maintenance, security, and nursing observation. It includes three meals per day and 24-hour staffing. Most assisted living facilities offer between one and two hours of personal assistance per day. This could include assistance with dressing, bathing, and toileting. A few facilities even offer subsidized services that can help seniors cover the monthly cost.
It offers life enrichment opportunities
A great benefit to residents of assisted living communities is life enrichment. They can help improve the quality of seniors' lives by providing support for their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. These activities are person-centered and tailored to the needs of each resident. For example, a resident's interests can be fulfilled by participating in art, music, or gardening. You can also learn new skills.
Assistive living communities offer more to seniors than just classes and social events. The life enrichment director can offer new programs and activities to residents who share common interests. For example, a resident may enjoy dancing.
It is much less expensive than nursing home
According to a recent survey by the American Health Care Association, assisted living is less expensive than nursing homes. A semi-private room in a nursing home can cost nearly $89,000 per year, whereas an assisted living room costs approximately $48,000 a year. Medicare covers a portion of the costs in both instances.
It is important to remember that assisted living doesn't necessarily offer 24/7 nursing care. It can be very costly to hire home health aides. Not all assisted living communities offer that level of care. Also, assisted living facilities typically operate on a private pay model, so estimating costs is more difficult.