Older adults who wish to remain independent, yet require assistance with activities of daily living, may find assisted living communities a viable alternative to remaining at home. The definition of assisted living varies from state to state, and most facilities are not licensed as medical care facilities. Residences range in size from small, intimate homes to large community developments that accommodate hundreds of residents.
Features
Most assisted-living facilities offer private living quarters, help with medications and assistance with personal care. Meals and snacks are generally served in a communal dining room at regularly scheduled intervals. An administrator or activities director oversees a monthly schedule of events that may include crafts, exercise programs and church services. Speakers, local musicians and singing groups frequently provide special performances. Accommodations may be provided for library services, club meetings and other expressed special interests. Most communities have in-house transportation services for shopping excursions and visits to restaurants and community events.
Benefits
For an independent older adult in relatively good health, the benefits of choosing a community lifestyle are many. According to research done by professor Pearl Dykstra, published in the European Journal of Population Ageing, social interaction and personal relationships are directly related to boosting overall health and life expectancy through an active lifestyle, a sense of community and the availability of support services.
Misconceptions
Although assisted living facilities offer a variety of support services, the base monthly charges are for the rental of your residence and a predetermined number of meals each week. Additional services such as help with bathing or personal needs, scheduled well-checks or visits to the hair salon may incur additional charges. Your apartment or suite is considered your private home, and so visits from family and friends are at your discretion. All residents remain free to come and go as they please.
Choosing the Facility
Brochures and marketing materials highlight the benefits of community living, but may not adequately address your particular situation. Before you begin your search, it is a good idea to compile a list of personal preferences to help determine whether the facility meets your lifestyle requirements. Following an initial tour, an unscheduled follow-up visit is a good way to observe staff and resident interactions and management style. Clean and tidy public areas and uncluttered kitchen facilities are good indicators of attention to detail--and the quality of services you can expect.
Considerations
Assisted living residences generally cost less than facilities that provide 24-hour medical care. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, in 2009, the average monthly cost of a one-bedroom assisted living residence was $3,131. However, because Medicare does not pay for assisted living, all expenses are paid out-of-pocket by the resident or family members. It is important to be aware that a decline in health or the need for services beyond the scope of an assisted living community may necessitate a move to a licensed nursing facility.
