(443) 745-6115If you have been considering transitioning your aging loved one to assisted living, you may be feeling a rollercoaster of emotions. Will your loved one be safe? Will the facility provide any medical care? Will they be comfortable and feel at home? Well, here’s what to expect in assisted living.
We know this is a very delicate and sensitive time, and facing the unknown can be quite scary. If you or your loved one are concerned about what to expect in assisted living, we’re here to provide some helpful insight.
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted living residences, unlike nursing homes, offer seniors a great deal of independence while ensuring that they receive the necessary levels of medical and personal care. Assisted living facilities are usually home-like and are designed to make aging adults feel safe and comfortable living their daily lives. This type of residence is a great option for those seniors who may need assistance with daily activities like dressing, bathing, and eating, but do not require intensive, around-the-clock assistance.
What Services are Provided?
Assisted living residences offer seniors a great range of services and activities that they’re sure to benefit from and enjoy. Some of the most common services that assisted living homes usually offer are:
- Personal care
- Laundry and housekeeping
- Daily meals
- Hairdresser services
- 24-hour emergency care
- Medication monitoring
In addition to basic services, assisted living facilities offer residents activities to participate in to keep seniors active and healthy. Some common activities that assisted living homes offer are:
- Crafts
- Bingo nights
- Yoga
- Book club
- Workshops
Every facility is different. Be sure to contact and visit a few different assisted living homes to find out what services and activities they offer in order to find the best fit for your aging loved one.
How To Make The Most Out of Assisted Living
Adjusting to assisted living can be quite difficult for some. However, there are things that you and your loved one can do to make the transition a little bit easier.
Participate in Activities – This ensures that your aging family member is socializing while they are in assisted living care and keeps them from spending the majority of their time alone. This also allows them to find new friends in their residence and feel less lonesome.
Personalize the Space – When moving in, make sure to help decorate and arrange the space so that your loved one will feel more comfortable and familiar with their new home. You can bring favorite blankets, pillows, books, ornaments, or anything else that gives them a sense of feeling at home.
Visit Often – It’s not just your loved one’s responsibility to get acquainted with the new space – you and other family members should, too! Be sure to visit often in order to provide familiar faces and remind them that they are cared about and loved.
Looking for Senior Care in Laurel, MD?
If your loved one is ready to transition to assisted living, look no further than Kenwood Care. We have four locations throughout Howard County, making it easy to choose a place that is most convenient for you and your loved one. Contact us today to schedule a tour of our residences and find the best space for them to call home.
