Assisted living communities offer a convenient option for seniors that want to retain independence but require some daily support. These facilities are equipped to help older adults live comfortably in a place that’s safe and secure.
They are a good option when a person doesn’t need skilled nursing but might require some day-to-day help.
Today’s assisted living facilities offer beautiful settings with luxurious amenities and a positive atmosphere. Many try to do more than just take care of residents. They build communities where aging people can thrive among their peers. Residents can build friendships, participate in activities, and enjoy life.
It’s important to note that not all assisted living communities are the same. Some offer more services than others. You should contact the facility you are interested in to find out what they provide. The following list outlines some of the most common services and care options in assisted living.
Levels of Care Based on Independence
One of the appealing things about assisted living is that it can adjust based on your or your loved one’s needs. Most locations will discuss a new resident’s health status and independence level. They will create a plan that ensures that the resident receives the care and attention they need. If anything changes during their stay, their plan can be adjusted.
Assisted living includes staff that can help with activities of daily living (ADL) and more. Residents can receive more assistance with dressing, grooming, bathing, and other ADLs as needed, or less if they can handle it on their own.
By scaling the amount of support that a resident needs, assisted living lets older adults live as independently as they can with options for more support if required.
Alzheimer’s and Memory Care Units
Some assisted living facilities include Alzheimer’s and memory care units. These are accommodations built for older adults with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. They are safe, and usually include locking doors so that residents can’t wander away.
They are also designed to provide a structured environment that lowers stress on people with memory loss. It’s usually separate from the main part of the assisted living community, allowing seniors to get specialized care based on their cognitive and health status.
Daily Meal Service
Most assisted living facilities include meals as part of their daily services. You should check with the facility you are considering to find out if food is included in the monthly fee.
This service often includes three meals a day plus snacks. You should also ask about the types of meals served and if dietary needs are considered. Meal plans may include three meals a day during specified times or a dining room or on-site restaurant that’s always open. Some also provide meal plans that residents can opt out of it if they prefer to cook their own food.
Meal service is an essential option because it can help seniors stay healthy. Poor nutrition can be a sign of a mental or physical condition. Knowing that a loved one has access to the food they need every day gives families peace of mind.
Housekeeping and Laundry Service
Assisted living communities are meant to ease the burden of care placed on residents and their loved ones. That’s why they usually include housekeeping and laundry service. Residents with limited mobility may not be able to clean as they used to at home.
Senior living accommodations usually have staff on hand to handle basic chores so that each resident’s living space stays clean and sanitary.
Medication Management Service
Medication management is important to a person’s health. Assisted living staff are trained to manage medications for residents. They make sure that pills are taken when they should be and in the correct dosages.
One of the signs that an older adult needs additional support is an inability to manage medications on their own.
Salon and Barber Services
Many assisted living communities include barber and salon services for residents. It’s important for general comfort and wellbeing and it can have an impact on a person’s self-esteem and mental health.
Some communities have barbers or a salon operating on-site. Others may bring in professionals to provide these services. These are usually beauty experts who understand how to care for and manage the hair of mature clients.
Transportation Services
Most people who reside in an assisted living community sometimes travel somewhere else for doctors’ appointments or other services. Some locations permit residents to park their cars there if they are still capable of driving.
However, as we age, our ability to drive safely can diminish. To accommodate those without vehicles, most assisted living communities include transportation services. They will arrange travel to a doctor, specialist, hospital, or wherever a resident needs to go.
Entertainment and Recreation
Assisted living communities often try to create a positive environment that nurtures a sense of community and friendship among residents. Staff will organize events, outings, and entertainment. Some items may be a daily option, like time spent in a communal space to watch movies or listen to a radio. Others may plan groups like book clubs.
Parties are also hosted to celebrate birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions. Residents can experience a full social life as well as the festivities they enjoyed when they were younger.
If you have questions about assisted living in Arizona, let us know. Casas offers comfortable living in Tuscon. Our facility is conveniently located near shopping and restaurants as well as close to the Oro Valley and Northwest hospitals. Contact us today to learn more about assisted living services for you or a loved one.
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