Have you or a loved one suggested the option of moving into an assisted living facility? An assisted living facility is a community for seniors who need a little extra help to perform daily tasks like bathing, dressing, cooking, and managing their medications. These communities offer housing and support services, as well as on-call or resident nursing staff who can assist in times of emergency.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and fearful about the transition to such a community, we’re here to help! It turns out that there are many myths associated with these types of facilities. Some confuse them with nursing homes, but as we have discussed previously, there are big differences between the two.
In fact, assisted living communities are actually relatively new and exciting options for seniors. Assisting living facilities are warm, sociable communities where seniors can age in place with more or less assistance as their individual needs require. Be sure you know the facts before you cross this option off your senior living checklist!
Myth #1: Assisted living isn’t affordable.
Fact: Assisted living can be a cost-effective option when compared with living in one’s home with a paid caregiver. Assisted living communities have a range of prices to choose from, and while insurance programs do not cover the costs at most facilities, there may be resources available to you to help with the fee, including Veteran’s and state programs. Ensure that you do the math as part of your research. You may find that when you total up expenses for your home, taxes, maintenance, and all utilities, plus the cost of any outside help you receive for daily or weekly care, the sum may be the same or higher than that of an assisted living facility.
Myth #2: Assisted living situations leave seniors isolated.
Fact: This couldn’t be further from the truth! One of the great benefits of assisted living facilities is that there are caretakers on call, and the residences provide a much more social environment than living alone at home. Seniors at assisted living communities can participate in group activities and exercise classes as well as group outings and other events. If you are still able to safely operate a vehicle, you are also free to drive your own car and have your own adventures!
Myth #3: Assisted living means a loss of privacy.
Fact: One of the best parts about residing in an assisted living community is that it can allow you to maintain a great deal of your independence for even longer. At an assisted living community like Bethany Village, you can be free to live inside your own space, and caregivers will only access your residence with permission when you need assistance, or if there is an emergency.
When you begin to explore your assisted living options, be sure to start your search with an open mind. Assisted living has changed a lot in the last few decades, and will continue to evolve as the Baby Boom generation gets ready for retirement.
