If you are new to the world of senior living, you must be overwhelmed with the terminology that is being used. We at Aston Gardens At Pelican Pointe recognize that this can be a hindrance in choosing the right type of care that your loved one needs. We want to help you and so, we have curated a non-exhaustive list of some of the more common words and phrases that you might have encountered.
Senior Living Community
This is a community just like Aston Gardens at Pelican Pointe which offers a wide range of facilities for seniors that include amenities and services by trained professionals. It encompasses various senior living programs like independent living and assisted care.
- Independent Living
Independent living is for older adults who are both mentally and physically equipped to deal with everyday life yet may want some form of camaraderie with those of a similar age.
- Supervised Independent Living
The following option is nearly the same as Independent Living, however there is usually supervision by trained professionals during designated times throughout the day. It’s meant for those who need that extra help.
- Assisted Living
This option is meant for someone who is not independent. What this means is that they cannot successfully complete daily tasks like showering and require help from someone to do it. They may also need additional facilities like wheelchair accessibility.
- Memory Care
This is a needed option for those with Alzheimer’s disease or any other kind of dementia. The living environment is more secure, and the therapies are specially designed to sharpen their mind.
Senior Living Actitivies
These are social and recreational activities to keep residents active and engaged senior living communities. Residents are encouraged to take part, so as to look after their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs.
- Activities of Daily Living
Activities of daily living (ADLs) are typically things that most of us don’t give a certain thought to like eating, bathing, grooming, dressing, and moving around. These tasks are necessities that one usually cannot do without.
- Instrumental Activities of Daily Living
Unlike ADLs, Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IALDS) are not truly associated with independent living. However, tasks like dealing with finances, driving, and paying the bills are nevertheless required for a good quality of life.
Senior Living Healthcare
- Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
Dementia is a prevalent disease of the brain that affects memory amongst other cognitive processes. Alzheimer’s disease is a kind of dementia. People with this need specialised care especially during late stages.
- Gerontology
This is an academic discipline which deals with issues related to seniors like the biological, psychological, and cultural aspects of aging.
- Occupational Therapy
This is a subfield of healthcare which emphasizes regular assessment and intervention to maintain mobility or recover from an injury. It includes exercises for strengthening various muscle groups in the body.
- Palliative Care
Yet another aspect of healthcare, this branch deals with specialized medical care and intervention who are living with serious illnesses no matter the diagnosis or prognosis. The aim is to reduce suffering and improve quality of life for the patients.
Caregiver
A caregiver is anyone who cares for a loved one who can no longer independently do day to day tasks. This is a broad term that can refer to a healthcare professional or even a family member who is shouldering such a responsibility.
