Safe And Compassionate Care For Independent Living Residents
Seniors are individuals with hopes, dreams, likes, and dislikes. These individuals may be unable to do everything they did when they were younger, but they still need safe and compassionate care. Their wishes should be respected, and they need input when family members make decisions regarding their care and living arrangements.Â
Independence and Freedom
Older adults often don’t like being told what to do. They have held jobs, raised kids, and lived life. Why should someone else dictate where these individuals live, what they eat, or anything regarding their daily lives? However, family members want to know their loved ones are safe. Independent living communities allow seniors to remain independent and have the freedom they crave while providing family members peace of mind, knowing someone is watching over their loved ones. An independent living resident controls every aspect of their life but has help when needed.Â
Services Offered
Seniors who move to an independent living community find they no longer have the burden of household maintenance or cleaning. Community staff members take care of light housekeeping and maintain the facility so residents don’t have to. The residents have more time to engage in their favorite activities, and the community typically has a complete activities calendar. They can try new things, knowing meals and housekeeping are handled. The community takes care of these tasks for them.Â
However, seniors remain responsible for their medical care and daily hygiene activities. Personal care services aren’t part of the amenities offered by these communities. Individuals needing help with daily living activities may wish to hire a home health agency. Doing so allows them to remain in the independent living community while still having the needed assistance.Â
Types of Independent Living
There are many types of independent living offered today. Some people want to live in an independent community with access to light housekeeping and laundry services. Others prefer a retirement community where they live alone and handle everything much as they would any house. However, they are surrounded by others in the same stage of life.Â
Subsidized senior housing is for those who can live alone but struggle to make ends meet. Senior apartments are similar to retirement communities but are apartments. Neither of these options typically offers services other than building and lawn maintenance.
Another option to consider is a continuing care community. Residents may start in independent living and move to higher levels of care as they age. They remain in the same community when doing so. This option allows them to stay surrounded by familiar people and places rather than move to a new community as they need more help.Â
Benefits of Independent Living CommunitiesÂ
Individuals who move to independent living communities benefit from dining services and maintenance-free living. They feel safe and comfortable, knowing someone can help them if needed. In addition, they are surrounded by others in the same stage of life and will find they have many things in common with fellow residents.Â
Every person entering a new phase of life with fewer responsibilities may wish to consider independent living. This option offers many benefits beyond those outlined above. Learn more today to see if it is right for your needs or would be ideal for an aging loved one. It never hurts to check out all options before deciding on the next step in life.Â