BackWhen Is the Right Time for Assisted Living?
Article submitted by Wyndemere Senior Living Campus in Wheaton.
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As time goes by, little things can sometimes become big challenges. Mom or Dad might be having trouble living alone - making their own meals, keeping track of their medications, getting in and out of bed or just keeping up with the house. Does that mean they are ready for Assisted Living? It's a time of confusion and worry, as family members struggle to make the right decision.
The first step is clarifying exactly what kind of care your loved one needs. If a parent is able to independently handle his or her own affairs, but is having trouble taking care of the house or keeping up with the yard work, perhaps an independent retirement community is the answer. In this setting, the focus is on eliminating all the worries of cooking, home maintenance and security - while still allowing seniors the pursuit of an independent lifestyle.
But, sometimes elder parents need more. That's where Assisted Living comes in - providing a supportive, residential setting for those who can no longer live alone, but who do not need the 24-hour care of a skilled nursing community.
Living in their own apartments, residents at an assisted living community enjoy the highest degree of independence possible, while receiving a helping hand with bathing, dressing, medication reminders and other daily activities. Transportation is provided for area outings or doctor's appointments. Three meals a day are served in a community or neighborhood dining room, ensuring that seniors are getting the nutrition they need, not just grabbing a frozen dinner night after night in front of the TV.
A variety of activities help keep seniors engaged and support staff is available 24-hours a day. Sometimes the benefits of Assisted Living are intangible. "If a parent is living alone, adult children might notice that their parent is depressed or withdrawn because they don't come in contact with others on a daily basis," said Shirley Pollard, director, Westbridge Assisted Living. "The socialization that one finds in a great assisted living community can make all the difference for a senior to enjoy life again."
Assisted Living communities can provide a safe, comfortable environment when seniors are no longer able to live on their own. With a committed caring staff keeping a daily vigilant eye on progress, they can make all the difference in restoring the quality of life for seniors, while easing the worries of their children.