What is Assisted Living?

So you’ve talked with your family, and you all agree on one thing: Something has to be done for mom or dad. Living alone is hard enough, but at their age, it’s becoming a real cause for concern. They don’t need a nursing home, but they have some lingering health needs, and require some assistance in their daily living. And home care is simply not an option.

It’s probably time to explore Assisted Living.

What is Assisted Living? Think of it as a half-way option for who adults who desire independence but need some assistance. When health and aging make it too hard for a senior to live alone, many people turn to Assisted Living Facilities, which allow a healthy degree of independence for their residents, while still maintaining a helpful, supportive community around them.

Many Assisted Living residents do not have grave illnesses, but experience difficulty in ways that most of us take for granted: everything from driving a car and doing laundry to getting out of bed and bathing themselves. Facility staff offer assistance according the needs of the residents. And of course, medical care is always nearby. Many of these facilities also offer nursing home facilities as well, often on the same property. This is sometimes referred to “Continuing Care,” and it can be very helpful for everyone. Residents don’t have to start from square 1 with applications and paper work, and they don’t have to make a massive transitions when their health does begin to deteriorate.

One reason many people choose Assisted Living facilities is for the communities they form. There are often bingo nights, exercise groups, arts and crafts, and town outings. These communities aren’t meant to replace family, but friends sure do make it easier!

My Grandmother, who passed away in April, lived in Assisted Living for the last few years of her life. She cherished being able to go into town even though she could no longer drive. And when she became ill, she made an easy transition to more intensive nursing care.

So what about your loved one? If they can’t live alone, can’t live with you, but don’t need full-time nursing care, it might be time to check out an Assisted Care facility. If you are in Oregon, click here to find a facility near you.