What Does Assisted Living Provide?
Most people prefer to maintain independence for as long as possible as they age. In fact, many seniors say their biggest fear is losing their sense of self and their freedom. However, currently one in five U.S. adults age 85 and above currently needs or receives help with activities of daily living (ADLs). There are six basic ADLs, and these are used by medical professionals and caregivers to evaluate an older adult’s daily functioning. The six ADLs are:
- Toileting
- Dressing
- Feeding
- Grooming (hygiene)
- Transferring
- Bathing
Seniors who want to maintain their daily independence, but who require help with one or more ADLs in order to remain safe and healthy, may wonder what options are available. Often, the answer is assisted living! Assisted living communities offer the safety and support needed by some older adults, while also allowing the freedom and independence for residents to continue to live their lives on their terms. Assisted living is also a wonderful way for seniors to stay social! Isolation, loneliness and boredom are all dangers of spending too much time alone in our older years. Having friends and peers right next door and coordinated activities to choose from daily allows seniors to practice social wellness while learning new skills and continuing to participate in hobbies they love.
What Is Assisted Living for Seniors?
So, what is assisted living for seniors? An assisted living community is a long-term senior care option for older adults who require help with the activities of daily living, but who do not need skilled nursing care or 24/7 support. Assisted living communities, like Griswold Rehabilitation & Health Care Center, are committed to balancing each resident’s independence, health services, security and leisure activities. Assisted living communities can also offer meals, laundry and housekeeping services.
Deciding when is the right time to move from independent living or living in a family home to an assisted living community can be a difficult decision. Some seniors may feel unsafe without additional support and make the decision easily. For others, it may be family members or caregivers who first spot the warning signs that a change is needed. Some of the common signs that begin the discussion of moving to assisted living include:
- Difficulty managing finances
- Worsening of medical conditions
- An increased risk of falls
- Depression or increasing social isolation
- Decline in personal hygiene
- Lack of ability to maintain a clean living space
While moving into assisted living can be emotional, residents are encouraged to bring personal items to help their new home feel like home. Family members are invited to participate in activities and join their loved one for meals, and communication and community involvement are encouraged!
What Does Assisted Living Provide?
Once the conversation about assisted living begins, the next question is usually, ‘what does assisted living provide?’ To put it simply, assisted living communities offer older adults personalized care in a residential setting. They are a perfect fit for seniors who require a higher level of support for health and wellness, but who prefer to remain active, independent and socially engaged.
When they move in to communities like Griswold, assisted living residents are assessed so they can receive an individualized care and service plan. This plan makes their care truly personal and gives caregivers a road map to help meet their needs. In terms of daily services and amenities, most assisted living communities provide:
- Daily meals and snacks
- Medication management services
- 24-hour emergency care
- Some medical services
- Social and recreational activities, often including fitness and wellness programs
- Laundry and housekeeping services
- Assistance with the activities of daily living as needed
About Griswold Rehabilitation & Health Care Center
Griswold Rehabilitation & Health Care Center is focused on allowing residents to maintain their independence and live freely with the support of an individual support and service plan. Each person’s plan includes their preferences and needs, allowing them to enjoy each day, while staying safe and feeling healthy! Amenities and support services specific to Griswold include:
- Linen services and housekeeping
- Trash removal
- Daily bed-making
- Medication monitoring
- Assistance with the activities of daily living
- Delicious, nutritious meals prepared daily
- 24-hour on-site staff
- Laundry room
- Private thermostat
- Coffee bar
- Barber shop and salon services
- 24-hour emergency response system
- Social, fitness and wellness activities and programs daily
- 24-hour certified nursing assistants (CNAs)
- Interior and exterior maintenance
Interested in learning more about Griswold? Contact us today to get answers to all your questions or to set up a tour!