Assisted living is a great option for seniors who need help with everyday tasks but don’t require 24-hour care. It can be a good fit for those who want the independence of their own home or those living in an independent community and wish to access additional services such as transportation and housekeeping. With so many options, it’s easy to get confused about senior-friendly independent living communities and what they offer. Here are top common myths about senior assisted living and our take on them:
I’ll Be Lonely
You may think that you’ll be lonely in an assisted living community. After all, it can be challenging to make new friends as we get older, and many people fear becoming isolated from others. But the reality is that assisted living communities are full of other golden-age adults eager to socialize with their peers.
One of the main reasons people choose to move into an assisted living community is to enjoy the companionship of other residents. These communities offer a level of comfort and security that many residents find appealing: knowing they will have someone there with whom they can go on walks or chat over lunch makes them feel safe and secure.
You might be surprised at how much fun you’ll have making new friends!
It’s Too Expensive
The cost of assisted living is one of the most common concerns for golden-age adults, who are often concerned about their finances. However, the cost of assisted living varies widely by region. The average monthly fee for a private room in an assisted living community ranges from $2,500 to $3,000 per month. That’s more than some nursing homes charge but less than other services like home care or staying alone (and paying for help when needed). If you’re on a fixed income and have limited resources, it might be hard to pay for assisted living if you’re not receiving financial help from family members or other sources.
I’ll Lose My Independence
While it’s true that you’ll need to rely on others for help with daily activities, assisted living is still an excellent place for independence. Many people believe that assisted living means no longer having any control over your life, but this couldn’t be further from the truth! You can still enjoy your room, have visitors whenever you want them in your apartment, and even have all the privacy you want when eating meals or watching TV in your own space.
It’s Only For People With Disabilities Or Those Who Need Specialized Health Care
Assisted living is not just for individuals with disabilities or needing specialized health care. It’s for the elderly who want an independent lifestyle but still want access to assistance when needed. Assisted living communities to offer more than you might think, from companionship and social engagement to daily assistance with activities such as bathing, dressing, and preparing meals. They are handy for individuals suffering from memory loss or declining physical abilities. Some assisted living communities even offer unique programs designed to help golden-age adults remain active and engaged in their community, including arts programs that allow residents to continue painting or writing in the comfort of their home environment.
It Won’t Feel Like Home
In assisted living, you can still cook your meals, have your belongings and do things you enjoy. You can still have your room with a view. And it will feel like home because it is!
Conclusion
Taking a closer look at these common myths can help you make an informed decision about assisted living. We hope this article has helped dispel some misconceptions surrounding this valuable care option for your loved ones. Assisted living is the right solution for many people and families who want to age in place, but only if they understand what it entails!
