5 Myths About Assisted Living
When you think of an assisted living community, what comes to mind? Many people have negative associations with senior living communities. When we see them on television, assisted living communities are often represented as slow-paced, institutional, and lifeless places to be.
Considering their reputation, it is understandable why many older adults and their loved ones are hesitant about moving into assisted living communities. Below, we’ll dive into common senior living myths so you can make a decision free from fear.
Myth #1: “Senior living communities are only for older seniors with health needs.”
Senior living communities are home to adults of a wide range of ages. While most of us imagine these communities as nursing homes for older adults with health needs, these communities can also cater to adults who simply want some help with everyday tasks.
After retirement, many adults want to sit back and relax. In continuing care communities like Copeland Oaks, adults can progress from retirement living to higher levels of care all within one community.
Myth #2: “Senior living communities take away your independence.”
Many people worry that they will lose their independence if they move into a senior living community. On the contrary, these communities may actually help you preserve your independence—and even enjoy it more. By providing scaffolded supports based on your needs, senior living communities make it easier for adults to continue living independently for as long as possible.
Myth #3: “Assisted living communities will make you lonely.”
If you are worried about you or your loved one experiencing loneliness in a new assisted living home, have no fear. Assisted living communities welcome visitors, often providing plenty of spaces to spend time with your friends and loved ones.
In addition to old friends, these communities often provide opportunities to connect with new friends through shared interests and activities. Who knows—you might just meet your new best friend.
Myth #4: “I won’t have any privacy.”
On the flip side of worries about lost connection is lost privacy. Moving from a private home to a community full of other adults can spark fear of losing the ability to take time alone. We often imagine strict schedules with no choice between activities at a given time of day.
Thankfully, assisted living homes understand the importance of alone time to a person’s well-being. Seniors have the agency to decide how much or how little time to themselves they take each day.
Myth #5: “Assisted living will be too expensive.”
We understand that learning of the monthly cost of assisted living communities can come with a shock. However, for most adults, after they break down the monthly cost of home ownership, maintenance, transportation, insurance, taxes, and other monthly expenses, the all-inclusive rate of an assisted living community begins to look more appealing.
Common Senior Living FAQs
The decision to move yourself or a loved one into a senior living facility can be a difficult one with many unknowns. Below, you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions about assisted living facilities.
What Are the Benefits of Assisted Living?
Living in an assisted living community comes with a number of benefits that serve to increase quality of life. Just a few of these benefits include…
- Easier, more frequent social time
- Aid from caregivers with day-to-day tasks
- Medication management
- Quick access to medical care as needed
- Less stress thanks to reduced responsibilities
- Opportunities to learn new skills and pick up new hobbies
- Peace of mind knowing you or your loved one is safe
How Do I Choose the Best Senior Living Facility?
It’s important to find a facility that fits the needs of both the older adult and their loved ones. Not all senior living facilities are the same—a few factors you can consider when making senior living selections include…
- Can this facility meet my loved one’s medical needs?
- What activities are available?
- What is the food like?
- How comfortable are the rooms and common areas?
- What are the procedures for visiting my loved one?
- What is the culture like?
- How will the facility handle transitions to higher levels of care?
What Is Senior Living Like Now?
As a society, our views of what senior living facilities are like have shifted over time. People want their loved ones to be safe, happy, and comfortable. Assisted living communities like Copeland Oaks work hard to meet your needs and provide a welcoming place for older adults to call home.