7 Assisted Living Myths
Moving to an assisted living facility is a big lifestyle change for seniors and their families. Research confirms overall health and mood often improve after relocating; however, myths surrounding senior living establishments frequently keep older adults from moving. Golden Crest Assisted Living thought it was important to help seniors and their families distinguish the facts from fiction regarding assisted living myths.
Assisted Living Is Too Expensive
In most cases, it costs less to move to an assisted living home than stay at home, especially in the long run when you consider your family’s medical history and the potential for unforeseen care. Up to seventy percent of seniors will eventually need some sort of daily assistance. It is frequently less expensive to consolidate your living, dining, home maintenance, and in-home support expenses by moving to an assisted living.
“Assisted Living Facility” is a Better Way of Saying “Nursing Home”
This is not true! There are a plethora of differences between assisted living facilities and nursing homes. Nursing homes are under twenty-four-hour medical supervision, with trained registered nurses; they are for people who are not capable of living independently. Assisted living is about helping seniors live as independently as possible. Help will be made available to them should they need it. Seniors in assisted living facilities are generally younger than those in nursing homes.
It Feels Like a Hospital
It is not a hospital and a good one should not feel like a hospital. Some areas of assisted living establishments may feel more like a hospital if residents there need more care. But most facilities have the areas designed to feel like a home. People who live there are able to move around, they have common areas, activity rooms, outdoor spaces, dining areas, and the residents have their own bedroom and living area.
I Will Be Lonely and Bored at an Assisted Living Facility and I Will Not Be Able to Do My Favorite Things
Many people have the notion that senior living communities are boring, and people just sit around all day. Residents of assisted living communities are still exploring, growing, and enjoying new things. And to accommodate to their needs, the communities are full of clubs, activities, events, volunteer groups, and other opportunities to meet some fun folks and engage in activities. Many assisted living communities will even work to provide open facilities for your preferred activities, giving you the chance to keep up with your favorite hobbies. Best of all, the outdoor areas and common rooms give more space for family and friends to visit your new place.
I Will Not Have Any Privacy at a Community
Assisted living residents have the choice of how much or how little social or alone time they want each day. Bedrooms are comfortable and accommodating, and you can choose to spend the whole day reading in your favorite armchair if you wish. Privacy is respected by all staff members, as well as other residents, who understand and share the desire for a non-intrusive environment. And, when you do feel like socializing, all you have to do is step outside. You have the best of both worlds when it comes to spending time how and with whom you want.
I Will Not Be Able to Personalize My Space
You probably will not be allowed to paint the walls or refinish the bathroom tiles to match your towels, but most facilities encourage residents to decorate their suites. You can bring along your personal items, pictures, and even your own pieces of furniture. Downsizing to a smaller home can be a difficult task, but most senior living communities will not make you sacrifice your style and taste in the process.
Moving into Assisted Living Means Giving Up Independence
False, false, false! Residents at assisted living communities live fulfilling, independent lives. The primary difference between an ordinary senior living community and an assisted living facility is that those with mobility impairments can get the help they need to maintain their independence without sacrificing their quality of living.
Your local Bureau of Aging can provide more information about assisted living myths and facts. If you have specific questions or would like to take a tour of any Golden Crest Assisted Living locations in Carroll County, feel free to contact Nancy at (410) 239-1224 ext. 1.