What is Assisted Living?

At some point, all of us will need to rely upon others to help us live our lives. Assisted Living is about hiring people for us to rely on.

It may be the most stressful, emotional, even painful decision we ever make. Relying on someone to help us, or someone we love, to live, travel, walk, eat, take medication, see the doctor, make a phone call, go to the bathroom — all these ordinary things, is a deeply personal admission that we’re no longer independent. Having to depend on other people, even skilled, trained professionals, is a fearful part of the psychological aspects that the elderly have to contend with. Luckily, assisted Living brings hope.

This solution offers peace of mind to family and residents. It enables us to depend on others whom we can trust with the livelihood and well-being of the people we care for most. It’s a solution that enables a more fulfilling life for everyone involved.

Why Does Assisted Living Appeal to Seniors?

Assisted Living is about community. When you evaluate Assisted Living Communities, you’re not just looking for housing — for buildings with foyers, gathering places, cafeterias, and fire exits. You’re looking for people you can trust, to do the things you’re no longer capable of doing entirely on your own, or to care for someone you love in the moments you can’t be right there.

You’ll find a supportive atmosphere that gives residents as much independence as they’re capable of handling for themselves, without the constant supervision and persistent oversight that would make them feel trapped, enclosed, and not at home. It takes a community to make such an environment, just as it takes a family to build a home.

Assisted Living Communities are usually designed and purpose-built to fit the needs of seniors, and include a variety of apartment styles. They often feature common areas, like movie theaters, beauty salons, great rooms, activity rooms, private dining rooms, and more. Some smaller Assisted Living properties are private homes (Residential Care Homes) or apartment buildings that have been converted to accommodate Assisted Living. All these property types enable trained, certified specialists to provide 24-hour care and attention. You can learn more in our article "How Do I Choose an Assisted Living Community?".

Why You Might Consider Assisted Living for Yourself or a Loved One

If any of the following describes your circumstances or that of a loved one, Assisted Living may be a solution to consider:

• If you need more help than friends and family can provide on a regular basis.
• If you worry for your safety and your mobility is limited, e.g., you have trouble getting out of bed on your own.
• If it has become too much for you to maintain your own home, or you feel isolated.
• If transportation has become a concern for you, and you can’t always rely on public transit or the help of a loved one to get where you need to go.
• If the activities you would like to perform on a daily basis have become stressful, overwhelming and just too much for you to handle on your own.

Residents of Assisted Living Communities receive the care they require in virtually all aspects of daily life, from eating and bathing and doing laundry to grooming and housekeeping. They are also invited to participate in a rich variety of activities for the body and the mind.

What Services are Provided by Assisted Living?

As you explore various Assisted Living options in your area, you’ll find that services will vary, but Assisted Living Communities generally provide these services:

Three meals a day in a common dining area.

Assistance with eating/meal preparation, bathing, getting out of bed, going to the bathroom, dressing, grooming, personal hygiene, and walking (as needed).

• Transportation.
• Laundry services.
• Housekeeping services.
• Medication management.
• Emergency call systems in your personal living space.
• Access to health and medical services.
• 24-hour security.
• Trained staff members who can help you with regularly scheduled needs as well as unexpected situations.
• Wellness programs.
• Social and recreational activities.

Who Qualifies for Assisted Living?

To qualify for Assisted Living, one must require regular help with at least two activities of daily living, whether it’s meal preparation, managing medication, personal hygiene or mobility.

Assisted Living Communities are also open to individuals of all ages with physical disabilities, including those that use a wheelchair or those that have late-stage cognitive disabilities.

As you begin to explore and research Assisted Living Communities, you’ll find any number of pricing options. In most cases, monthly fees range from $4,000, up to $9,500 for residents with higher care needs and larger apartments.

How to Find an Assisted Living Community in Your Area

If you would like to learn more and find the right Assisted Living Community for you or your loved one, we welcome you to search for Assisted Living properties near you (or in any region you’re interested in). Get started today.