These residences provide assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, eating and transferring for residents needing extra assistance. In addition, case management, coordination of health care services from external providers as well as medication administration services are also offered at these residences.
Look for an environment that feels homey for your loved one and fulfills their individual needs. Good facilities typically provide plenty of social and recreational activities.
Personal Care
At assisted living communities, teams of care providers are on hand to assist residents with grooming, bathing and toileting needs; medication management; housekeeping needs; as well as any emergency issues that may arise. A nurse may also be present as necessary.
As opposed to personal care homes, assisted living residences are licensed and subject to specific state-level regulations that dictate their size and layout as well as how many residents can share a room. Most states mandate that assisted living rooms include at least one private bathroom that includes either a tub or shower and can be locked securely for added protection.
Individuals looking into assisted living should first make an assessment of their current health and mobility needs, as well as what services may be needed in the future. This can be accomplished by speaking to their physician or participating in a brief assessment at their preferred assisted living residence.
Meal Preparation
Living in assisted living means meals prepared by professional chefs using top-of-the-line ingredients are prepared and served restaurant style to give residents an opportunity to socialize while simultaneously feasting on delectable treats.
To ensure that your loved one receives adequate nutrition, a registered dietitian creates personalized menus. In addition to taking note of any allergies or medications which might conflict with certain foods, he or she will also take note of potential food reactions or allergies that could occur with certain dishes.
Make mealtimes exciting for your elderly loved ones by creating themed days with food that fits the theme, providing something they can look forward to and have conversations about over dinner time with family members.
Seniors having trouble eating or swallowing may benefit from sitting in a chair that is elevated to table level, to allow them to focus more easily on what they are consuming while decreasing coughing due to choking. After each bite is taken, have them clear their mouth to ensure any debris or liquid doesn’t remain behind in their throats.
Transportation
Assisted living communities usually include transportation services in their monthly fees, which could include scheduled trips to doctor appointments, pharmacy runs, grocery store runs or outings and classes that offer socialization and mental stimulation opportunities.
Many senior citizens lack reliable transportation, which can have severe health repercussions. According to research, transportation barriers may lead to postponed healthcare appointments and poorer medication management resulting in decreased quality of life for elderly residents.
Assisted living facilities should have policies in place that cover medical transport costs as well as liability coverage for staff who might transport residents. When touring, make sure the facility has this in place, and check with their current health plan as some insurers now consider transportation as insurable costs.
Respite Care
Respite care can provide essential relief from caregiver fatigue or burnout for primary caregivers who are experiencing work or personal challenges; respite care may take place at their own home, an adult day health center, or residential settings such as assisted living communities and nursing homes.
Ask your loved one about their preferences and needs when selecting a respite care provider. Determine their comfort level around strangers as well as if they enjoy social interaction, various forms of therapy, exercise and mental stimulation activities.
When selecting a residential program, be sure to visit and speak with staff and other families in person, obtain references, assess costs, policies and procedures and evaluate respite stays as soon as possible – this allows time for filling out necessary paperwork, reserving services needed by your loved one, packing their belongings securely and understanding any applicable medication policies; plus it ensures your preferred respite provider will be available!