A recent study by Age Wave found that a large percentage of the population were underestimating the likelihood they would require long-term care. It is estimated that about 70 percent of the population will need help with self-care at some point but less than 40 percent over the age of 50 believed it would apply to them personally.
It is important for those nearing retirement to begin looking at assisted living information within their own communities and those areas they may be considering as retirement locations and really ask themselves, “What is assisted living going to look like for me?”
What is Assisted Living Exactly?
Many people think an assisted living facility is nothing more than a new name for a nursing home. This couldn?t be further from the truth. Nursing homes are designed for people who have serious health conditions who need routine nursing care. Assisted living facilities are for individuals with greater mobility and fewer health concerns who wish to have the security of living in a community with their peers and access to assistance as needed.
What is Assisted Living Going to Do for Me?
Assisted living facilities offer a number of important services to their residents. Health care monitoring and management are two of the most important services but residents also have help with daily activities. Housekeeping and laundry services ensure necessities are always taken care of and the resident?s living space is kept tidy even when it is too much of a physical challenge for them to do themselves.
When needed, senior living centers will also provide assistance to residents with bathing and dressing, medication, and eating. Security is taken care of by professionals and transportation to appointments and activities is provided.
How to Choose an Assisted Living Facility
Take the time to tour any facilities which are being considered. It is important that the resident feels a connection to the atmosphere, location, employees, and other residents. The location of the facility should be close to the resident?s family, friends, and preferred social activities when possible. Finally, be sure to carefully review the facility?s policies and makes sure they match your expectations and requirements.
Retirement centers and assisted living facilities have a lot to offer people who want to maintain a level of independence and autonomy. Genworth Financial completed a study recently that showed more than half of respondents indicated their biggest fears centered around becoming a burden to their family. This fear was as much as five times greater than their concern for dying. Assisted living facilities offer residents assurance that they will be well cared for and have the ability to continue participating in community activities and hobbies without becoming a burden to those they love.
