When looking for a retirement community for yourself or a loved one, it might be difficult to understand all of the jargon for various senior living options, such as assisted living and independent living. For people who haven’t visited an assisted living community, they might have heard of many myths about assisted living. While some of those myths might have been true for assisted living communities a few decades ago, we have come a long way since then. Read on as we debunk some popular assisted living myths and provide information about what assisted living communities today have to offer.
Residents Need to Be Disabled or Sick
While certified nurses may be part of the care team for assisted living residents, assisted living is for older adults who are self-sufficient and only require limited care. If you ever require higher levels of care, such as skilled nursing or rehabilitation, you’ll work with your community to acquire the care you need.
Residents Will Be Bored or Lonely
There are plenty of neighbors in assisted living communities, so you’re bound to discover someone who shares your interests. There are also a number of clubs, volunteer groups, and other activities to participate in. In fact, many residents claim they’ve never been busier. While assisted living homes provide a schedule full of exciting activities and events, such as board games, sports, handicraft courses, and yoga classes, you are always free to engage in as many or as few activities as you desire.
It’s Expensive
When you consider all the things you have to do to your home to make it simpler for you to get around, such as employing a caretaker, removing steps, and enlarging entrances, remaining at home may end up costing you considerably more in the long run. Most assisted living communities will cover utilities, property taxes, all interior and exterior upkeep and repairs, and meals. You also get access to their highly trained team 24/7.
No Privacy
Most assisted living communities have a selection of apartment floor layouts that may be furnished and decorated in any way you see fit. Furthermore, you will only have guests when you want them, and the care team will only enter your apartment with your knowledge and approval.
Residents Lose Their Independence
You have the freedom to participate in hobbies that interest you, eat whenever you choose, design your home, and even visit with friends and relatives. If you decide to go traveling, the community will take care of everything while you’re gone. In reality, assisted living communities are meant to keep you as independent as possible.
It’s a Nursing Home
Assisted living communities assist with only activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing, which can be difficult or unsafe to perform on your own. This retains as much of your independence as possible. Social events, activities, housekeeping, medication monitoring, and meals are also provided. On the other hand, nursing homes assist with chronic health concerns that need special attention and 24-hour care from medical professionals.
