What is an Assisted Living Facility?

Assisted living centers are designed to provide long-term care for individuals who generally need help with everyday activities. The residents who live in these facilities do not need the skilled nursing services provided in nursing homes. Because of this, assisted living centers can provide more individualized support for residents in an active and safe residential community environment.

Assisted living care can be provided in stand-alone communities, aligned with skilled nursing homes and/or hospitals, joined with independent living complexes, or found within continuing care retirement communities.

Essential services offered generally include: 

• Nutritious dining services
• House cleaning and laundry
• Assistance with medications or medication management
• Social and spiritual activities
• Wellness and exercise programs
• Emergency nursing services
• Bed changing
• Maintenance services
• Transportation services

Assisted living centers are focused on delivering person-centered care and services. To accomplish this, they will evaluate the individual needs of each resident to find what works best for your loved one. As the needs of the resident progress, more specific care can be offered. This might include helping residents with washing, bathing, and dressing on a daily basis.

Like other retirement centers, assisted living facilities also improve the quality of their residents' lives by offering a range of different community-centered classes, activities, and entertainment. These offerings usually cater to the social, spiritual, and wellness needs of the residents.

Assisted living centers provide peace of mind to family members while allowing their loved ones the opportunity of a community atmosphere while receiving the support they need.

Who Can Live in an Assisted Living Center?

Predominantly, people living in assisted living centers will be older individuals who are no longer able to live independently. However, these centers may also care for patients with: 

• Early on-set cognitive and memory disorders 
• Specific physical needs
• Developmental disabilities 
• Psychiatric needs

You may find a range of ages across assisted living facilities. This can particularly benefit the more elderly population in an assisted living center. Other facilities cater specifically to distinct groups of patients.

Creating a Feeling of Home

Moving from home, especially one you've lived in for years, can be a daunting experience. This is one reason why many people put off finding assisted living accommodations for their loved ones. 

However, it is possible to create a real home-from-home in their new living space. While many rooms may come furnished, residents are encouraged to bring personal items to make the space their own.

This might include personal photographs, artwork, books, or their favorite bedding. If your loved one has a favorite armchair, they can even bring this with them. These little touches will immediately make a room feel more familiar and welcoming.

We’re Here for You

Assisted living can provide your loved ones with the best possible care and support while still giving them a sense of independence.

For more information on our facilities or deciding when to move an Alzheimer's patient to assisted living, get in touch today. We're here to help!