Chances are, we all know a family member, neighbor or friend who may need assistance with activities of daily living. Their quality of life may be diminished physically or mentally, but clearly do not warrant nursing home placement.
There is an alternative within the health care community - Assisted Living.
"If Grandma can't stay in her home, she'll have to go into a nursing home." How many times has this statement been made? Assisted living provides an intermediate option.
The facilities are licensed, inspected and monitored by State officials. These communities provide a personalized level of care such as room and board, social and recreational opportunities, around-the-clock staffing, and supervision of self-administered medications. The State provides specific guidelines and limitations on the functional abilities of persons residing in assisted living communities; therefore, it is important to note that these communities may not be appropriate for everyone.
Support comes in many forms.
In addition to the basic required services, most communities provide an array of additional support. They may provide some or all of the following amenities:
- transportation
- personal laundry
- beauty salon/barber shop
- cable TV
- personal hygiene assistance
- coordination of medical care
- prescription ordering and delivery
- home health care coordination
For persons afflicted with Alzheimer's disease or dementia, restricted entry/exit is also available.
Probably the most attractive feature of an assisted living community is the opportunity for residents to function at their own individual level of independence - thereby improving their quality of life. Residents often agree they are more independent in an assisted living community then they were in their own home. Meal time is more pleasant because meals are not eaten alone and the variety of prepared foods makes meals more nutritional and enjoyable. Choices of social, recreational, educational, and religious activities fill the daytime hours with exciting opportunities.
Also, knowing that someone is always present, 24 hours a day, is very comforting and reassuring. Explore the options. Many assisted living communities have graduated levels of care, including independent, assisted, and memory support; while others may focus on only one or two levels of care.
As one continues the journey on "the road of life", there are choices to be explored and decisions to be made. The best decision can only be made with adequate information.
These questions will help you evaluate whether assisted living may or may not be the best choice.