By 2030, there will be one million more Americans living in assisted living communities, bringing the total to one million. As the population ages, many of our loved ones are taking advantage of new options, such as assisted living communities, to improve their quality of life.
There are communities that provide assisted living either as a stand-alone option or as a part of bigger networks of care for your loved ones. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, these are options for your loved ones who may need help with clothes, bathing, eating and toileting but who also may not require urgent medical treatment. Assisted living benefits can go well beyond helping with everyday tasks.
Continue reading to discover why you should opt for assisted living for quality of life.
Daily Assistance
Assisted living allows your loved ones access to a larger range of options and greater independence than living alone.
11% of individuals 75 and older need assistance with simple actions like taking a shower, dressing, or using the bathroom. People of all ages may depend on family members or other caregivers for these daily tasks as well as other needs like going grocery shopping, paying bills, or emotional support.
In addition to providing your loved ones with the ongoing support they need through daily assistance from team members, an assisted living community may reduce the strain on family members.
Adaptability
Communities for assisted living may regularly give additional support when your loved ones’ needs change. While they may be able to participate in today’s social activities and need help getting around, their community may help them progressively more when they begin to need help getting ready for the day and having a shower. Some assisted living programs’ flexibility can provide long-term stability as people age or their needs alter.
Meals
Our loved ones suffer serious effects from malnutrition. The three major causes of your loved ones’ nutritional needs not being met are unhappiness, trouble in the kitchen, and changing dietary demands. Unhealthy food can damage immune systems and lead to various health problems.
With assisted living, you may enjoy nourishing meals prepared by skilled experts while avoiding the regular stress of cooking and grocery shopping. Campuses can also cater to individuals with special dietary needs, such as those who require a low-sodium or diabetes-friendly diet.
Community
According to studies, the quality of life of your loved ones is significantly impacted by their interactions with friends and family. The United States of Aging study found that keeping ties with family and friends may be more important than having money for preventing loneliness and depression. While being close to friends and family, assisted living gives loved ones the chance to meet new people and form new connections.
Activities
When a loved one feels lonely and depressed, their health issues might get worse or they could develop social anxiety. Your loved ones may easily access a wide variety of scheduled activities at assisted living communities to maintain their friendships, forge new bonds, and learn new things. Activities, such as planned outings and dinners, regular game evenings, or community movies, can have a big impact on factors that determine long-term quality of life.
