2 minute read
The Assisted Living Myth
by Expert Contributor Lindsey Poeth, CSA®, Owner of Oasis Senior Advisors - Main Line
For many individuals, the words “Assisted Living” can conjure up scary images that evoke the notion of losing independence in an institutionalized, hospital-like setting. For many seniors, that perception is based upon past experiences such as nursing homes of the 1960s and 1970s, in which their loved ones may have had negative experiences.
Today’s Assisted Living (AL) or Personal Care (PC)* communities are very different from 60 years ago. Now, they’re designed to cover health management, safety, social engagement, and quality of life for the residents. They offer bright, comfortable residences of all sizes, engaging programming based on the residents’ preferences, and peace of mind that any and all care needs can be addressed.
Many seniors feel a move to a community epitomizes a loss of independence, and it’s the next step in their ever-shrinking world. Many no longer drive; social networks get smaller as people age; family and friends may not visit as often; and perhaps a spouse has passed, leaving these individuals more isolated and lonely than ever before. A move to a senior living community can change all that! Maintaining independence is a priority for communities and residents alike, so residents can continue doing what they enjoy, for as long as possible. Once a senior has help with tasks they struggle with (e.g., making meals, bathing, home maintenance), they are empowered in every other aspect of their life.
Safety is another key benefit of moving into a PC community. It’s understandable that most seniors would prefer to stay in their own home, which is familiar and full of memories. But most homes are not designed for walkers or wheelchairs, which many seniors need to safely “age in place.” This design mismatch often results in seniors spending more and more time in a small section of their house. PC communities are specifically designed as a safe residence: Handrails, grab bars, elevators, personal alert devices and emergency pull cords are all standard. This safer environment reduces stress for seniors and also for their families.
The best way to dispel the myths associated with these communities is to get information and tour those near you. If social distancing requirements or other factors make in-person tours not an option for you, many communities offer virtual tours and/or video walkthroughs.
The senior living industry has revolutionized itself into something to be celebrated. Seniors can set themselves up for a future of independence through reassuring avenues of care, safety, and socialization. A move to a PC community can and should be considered the beginning of a new adventure!
*Most communities in Pennsylvania are licensed as Personal Care rather than Assisted Living, although they both are very similar.
Expert Contributor Lindsey Poeth, CSA®, Owner of Oasis Senior Advisors - Main Line
484-947-4266
A Free, Personalized Senior Housing Placement Service For Retirement Communities • Independent Living • Assisted Living / Personal Care • Memory Care • Respite Services • Residential Care Homes • Hospice Care • Skilled Nursing Homes
www.OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/Mainline
LPoeth@YourOasisAdvisor.com
