Active Care Senior Living; Assisted living is the best choice for many elderly people who need care and assistance in order to live a more fulfilling and healthy life. However, there are several things to consider when deciding on which assisted living facility to choose. Among these are the costs, activities, meals, transportation, and memory care services.
Cost
For many people, the cost of assisted living can be an intimidating topic. Assisted living costs vary greatly depending on location, amenities, level of care, and services. A basic private, one-bedroom apartment in an assisted living facility costs approximately $4,000 per month.
Costs can be even more expensive if your loved one has health conditions that require more care. Prices also vary from state to state. The most affordable locations are usually located outside of major cities.
Typically, the cost of assisted living will be less than a nursing home. Some states may cover a portion of the cost through Medicaid, a joint federal-state program that provides health insurance for low-income Americans. But Medicare will not cover the cost of room and board.
Some assisted living facilities offer all-inclusive pricing, which allows residents to budget their monthly expenses better. Depending on the facility, add-on care services may be charged on top of the monthly rental fee.
Activities
Assisted living communities offer activities for their residents that will help them maintain their quality of life and live their lives to the fullest. They provide new neighbors, and opportunities to participate in meaningful activities.
For example, many assisted living facilities have a large community room and outdoor gathering area. They also feature a wide variety of trips and excursions. These can promote socialization, reduce boredom, and increase self-confidence.
One of the most common problems seniors face is isolation. By participating in activities, older adults can reduce feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, these experiences can boost their mental and physical health.
Assisted living programs should be designed with the specific needs of senior citizens in mind. They should offer activities that are safe and fun.
Meals
Seniors in assisted living communities expect to have a variety of healthy meals. This includes fresh fruit and vegetables and whole grain bread. But it’s also important to consider the tastes of each resident.
Meals are a time for residents to enjoy the company of others, socialize with staff and guests, and create memories. A study by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality found that residents’ satisfaction with dining programs is correlated with their overall contentment.
As the baby boomer generation ages, the food served in senior living communities has undergone a major transformation. While traditional dining services may still be standard, residents can enjoy gourmet meals or choose to eat in a more private setting.
For example, many assisted living facilities bring food to the room. Others have separate kitchens and cooking stations for their residents. Still others work with a third-party source for daily dining services.
Transportation
Seniors living in an assisted living facility can benefit from a variety of transportation options. This service can help them maintain their independence and remain active in their communities. A transportation service may include on-demand rides to appointments, shopping, and family visits.
In addition, some communities offer a regular shuttle bus. The shuttle buses are essential to the operations of the facility. They also provide residents with continuous visual advertisements.
Some communities offer on-demand rides, while others include a monthly fee. It’s important to check with your assisted living facility to find out what their transportation policies are.
If you’re looking for an affordable option, some companies offer special senior transportation services. These are usually non-profit or volunteer-based.
Several states require transportation for seniors living in the community. Some of the larger assisted living communities offer regular trips to local medical centers and social activities.
Memory care
Memory care in assisted living focuses on providing a comfortable environment for residents. This type of care is designed to offer round-the-clock support to those who have memory loss conditions. Assisted living communities typically have special units dedicated to providing memory care, and a variety of services are available to these patients.
Memory care units are designed with special security features. The rooms may have coded keypads and emergency alert systems to keep residents safe. Some have waysfinding paths, sensory gardens, and other elements to promote well-being.
The staff at a memory care facility is trained to meet the needs of people who suffer from Alzheimer’s and other memory related conditions. They also provide counseling for residents and their families. Staff will help residents cope with difficult behaviors and encourage seniors to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
