If you’ve noticed certain signs and symptoms in your elderly loved one that is indicative of them needing more care than you can provide, it may be time to think about moving them into an assisted living community.
Assisted living is a great alternative for a senior that needs extra help with daily activities. It helps them lead full lives while giving them a sense of independence. Seniors may feel scared when hearing the term “assisted living”, especially when he or she thinks about moving from a familiar environment to a new location. However, assisted living communities offer a plethora of amenities that benefit not only the resident but the family as well.
If you’ve discussed moving your loved one into an assisted living community, be sure to do your research as no two communities are the same. The services and amenities they provide vary from one another.
Check out these top 5 amenities that you should consider when touring assisted living communities and before choosing one for your loved one.
1.FUN
You may be familiar with the phrase “Laughter is the best medicine”. Laughter is not only contagious, but it can relieve pain, boost your immune system, and decreases symptoms of depression. So, why wouldn’t you want to live in a place that’s fun? Assisted living communities know the importance of laughter and offer plenty of opportunities for residents to enjoy themselves.
Communities often employ a social coordinator or entertainment director to schedule activities. From games and social events to wine and movies, residents can engage in various types of entertainment that interest them. Most residences also provide music and art classes that have numerous health benefits such as enhancing memories of dementia patients, lowering blood pressure and heart rate, reducing stress, and increasing self-esteem.
2.PERSONALIZATION
The most sought-after communities provide a personalized plan for each resident. So, when you’re searching for the perfect assisted living community, ensure your loved one will have an individualized care plan. Daily meals are often planned individually based on the resident’s tastes, preferences, and diet. Additionally, residents may have personally-controlled heating and air conditioning in their rooms, which is perfect for those that are sensitive to changes in temperature. Healthcare plans are also personalized based on the needs of the resident, focusing on their physical health, mental health, and vision and hearing.
3.SAFETY
Safety for your loved one should be one of the main priorities when researching assisted living communities. Is there 24-hour emergency care? Are there alarms on the exit doors? Are the rooms ADA compliant and have call buttons? How does the staff monitor the residents? All of these questions and more need to be asked of each residence you consider.
In addition, some communities provide medication management to ensure your loved one will take scheduled medications on time and that the medications they do have do not have any adverse effects. Also, medical record management guarantees that each treating doctor has the proper and most up-to-date medical records.
It’s important to choose an assisted living community that offers ADA compliant rooms. The rooms should include grab bars, non-slip adhesives in the shower, and wheelchair accessible showers and toilets. Although these features may be unnecessary currently, your loved one may need them in the future.
4.TLC
It’s quite common for assisted living communities to include housekeeping services such as washing laundry, vacuuming, and changing linens. But what about something a little more personal? Full service salons offer residents an opportunity to beautify themselves from head to toe…literally. Pedicures, manicures, massages, and hair services keep residents looking and feeling great.
5.MIND-BODY-SPIRIT
Some of the best assisted living communities use the holistic approach to care and well-being by attending to a senior’s mind, body, and spirit. To keep the mind active and sharp, communities might offer a library, computer, brain puzzles, or even video games. There are also specialized memory care programs specifically designed to manage those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. They use sensory stimulation features and techniques that help reduce anxiety and increase understanding and communication in Alzheimer’s residents.
Fitness centers are designed to help residents remain active, get involved in strength training, and improve their overall health. Yoga classes, barre classes, and Tai Chi are just a few of the fitness amenities residents can enjoy.
To engage the spirit, residents can benefit from a tranquility room that provides soothing music, candles, and aroma that promotes relaxation. Also, peaceful outdoor gardens and courtyards allow residents to enjoy the outdoors without the risk of getting lost.
So, when you’re considering moving your loved one into an assisted living community, be sure to choose one that has the amenities he or she needs and deserves. Choose a place that can be called home.
