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What Leads People to Move into Assisted Living Facilities?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
People move into assisted living facilities due to declining health, an inability to manage home upkeep, social isolation, caregiver burnout and the desire for a supportive community. These facilities offer a balance between independence and assistance by providing various services. Seniors appreciate help with activities of daily living (ADLs), medication management, daily meals, housekeeping and regularly scheduled social activities.
Assisted Living as a Viable Option
Assisted living facilities offer a vital option for long-term care, providing a unique blend of independence, support and community for older adults. These facilities offer a middle ground between independent living, where seniors live on their own with minimal assistance, and nursing homes, which provide comprehensive medical care in a structured environment. They vary in amenities, services and care models. Some facilities resemble apartment complexes, offering private living spaces with kitchenettes and bathrooms, while others provide communal living arrangements.
Regulations in each state ensure assisted living facilities follow the policies and procedures put in place to protect seniors. Different states impose different licensing requirements and standards of care. Some jurisdictions treat assisted living facilities as residential settings with minimal oversight, while others have more stringent regulations similar to health care facilities. Thoroughly research any location and seek out personal experiences when selecting an assisted living facility.Exploring the Reasons for Transitioning to Assisted Living Facilities
Personal, social and practical reasons influence the decision to move into assisted living. Physical or cognitive decline and safety concerns often top the list as primary drivers. Some seniors struggle with fine motor skills or range of movement as they age, putting them at risk for falls. Assisted living facilities offer around-the-clock assistance and safety features, including grab bars and handrails to help prevent accidents.
High-level support and belonging to a community also help alleviate social isolation. Loneliness often occurs among older adults due to mobility limitations or work obligations of their friends and family. The professional care services provided in assisted living help prevent caregiver strain. The social opportunities of assisted living also significantly enhance residents’ well-being. They have convenient access to a variety of amenities, with the freedom to choose their preferred level of involvement.