If you have a loved one who is experiencing a change in needs, you may be wondering, “Why do people move to assisted living?” There are many reasons why a person may choose to move to assisted living, and oftentimes these reasons are complex, involving a blend of personal, social, medical, and financial factors. It provides assistance for those who need it during daily activities, but do not require around the clock medical care as those living in a nursing home.
Assisted living allows individuals to make their own decisions, but also provides access to support when needed. Although the reasons to make the decision to move into assisted living varies from person to person, it is often influenced by emotional, mental, physical, and lifestyle considerations.
Health and Medical Needs
One of the main reasons a person may choose to move into an assisted living facility is for health and medical reasons. As people get older, their mental and physical abilities decline, making it difficult for them to live on their own. Even if they have the ability to live on their own, the risk of falling, health emergencies, or medical management makes assisted living a better option for many seniors.
With assisted living, staff is available at all times of the day to help with activities and ensure residents receive any care that they may need. They provide safe, secure, and supportive environments that are crucial for seniors whether they have a disease such as dementia, or they have physical impairment that makes getting around difficult.
Assisted living is the perfect place that allows a person to be closely monitored for safety, while maintaining a level of independence.
Caregiver Strain
Another reason a person who is getting older may make the decision to move into assisted living is because it puts a strain on family caregivers. Caregiving for an older, living relative can be draining physically, emotionally, and financially. Family members often don’t have the knowledge or resources they need to provide medical care for these individuals.
By choosing to move into assisted living, they are able to help their family members have peace of mind knowing their loved ones are safely cared for.
Some may not have any loved ones to care for them within their home, which is why they choose to move to an assisted living facility. This gives them an opportunity to move into a small place, where they will be given around the clock care, if necessary.
Desire for Change in Environment
Some seniors have a desire for a change in their environment. Maybe their house is now too big, they are lonely from living on their own, their house is unsafe, or they have the desire for maintenance-free living. Moving into assisted living can be a great option.
Living alone can also put a strain on our mental state. Assisted living gives an opportunity to live near other seniors who are in the same situation and provides opportunities to make new friends and join in on activities.
Residential homes may also pose a threat to seniors. Many of these homes are not designed for those who may have balance issues and walking impairments. Living in assisted living provides an environment that is safe for all seniors, as well as takes away maintenance burdens they may have living at home.
Financial Considerations
Due to the rising cost of living, maintenance, and medical costs, living at home may have become too expensive for some seniors. In some cases, assisted living may be more cost-effective, especially if the person requires help with daily activities or needs medical services on a regular basis. For some, residing in assisted living gives seniors the financial predictability they may not be getting living at home, as expenses are often set at one fixed price at these facilities.
FAQs
Q: Why Do People Choose Assisted Living?
A: Although there are a variety of reasons why one may choose to move into assisted living, safety, peace-of-mind, and the ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle are the three most popular ones. Other reasons include transportation, dining assistance, activities, finances, and around-the-clock care. Assisted living provides seniors a place that is geared toward their needs, as well as their interests.
Q: What Is the Ideal Age to Move to Assisted Living?
A: There is no real ideal age to move to assisted living, as every person’s needs and situation are different. A senior at one age may require 24-hour medical care, while another senior at the same age may still be able to drive and get around all on their own. Family situations and personal preferences also play into the age at which it is most appropriate to move into an assisted living facility.
Q: What Are the Drawbacks to Assisted Living?
A: When considering moving into assisted living, it’s important to look into the drawbacks as well. These can include not being covered by Medicaid, the potential for reduced privacy, and the potential for lack of control over the routines set forth in the structured facility. However, the advantages often outweigh the negatives for many seniors who are considering moving into assisted living.
Q: How Do You Know When Someone Needs Assisted Living?
A: One of the signs that someone needs assisted living is the need for help to complete daily tasks or increased daily medical care. Signs to look for are when the senior needs help with eating, bathing, taking medication, dressing, and walking. When it appears that seniors are struggling to take care of themselves the way they used to, it may be time to begin discussing moving them into an assisted living facility.
Rocky Mountain Assisted Living – A Home Away From Home
Whether the assisted living facility will be for you or your loved one, making the choice to move is an important one. Rocky Mountain Assisted Living is able to provide high-quality and compassionate care. By reaching out to Wheat Ridge Assisted Living, you are taking a step toward improving the well-being of your loved ones. Contact us today to schedule a tour.