7 Benefits of Assisted Living

As you or a loved one age, it may become apparent that living alone isn’t the best option. Maybe you require more help with daily living — or with the kids and grandkids far away, perhaps you seek more opportunities for socialization. Whatever your situation is, rest assured there are many benefits to assisted living. Assisted living communities today are vibrant environments with active seniors who enjoy independent, meaningful lives.

We’ll look at the top seven benefits of assisted living. But, first, you may ask when is it a good time to move to assisted living? Suppose you or a loved one is having trouble with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, mobility or remembering to take medication. In that case, this could be a good indicator that it's time to consider your options.

If you have had many falls or find doing household chores difficult, these too could be signs that it’s time to move into an assisted living community. Situations vary, so take your time with this decision and talk with your doctor or family. 

1. Safety and Security

One of the most significant benefits of living in an assisted living community is the safety and security it brings to residents.

• In assisted living communities, you’ll have access to supportive care 24/7.
• Bathrooms have grab bars and other ADA-compliant safety features.
• Most assisted living apartments have in-room alert systems if you require immediate attention.
• Hallways are wide and can accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
• Common areas — both inside and out — are easy and safe to navigate.
• Staff-to-resident ratio ensures each resident receives proper care and attention.

2. No More Isolation

Social isolation can happen to even the most outgoing senior. Children and grandchildren move away, and old friends and family members pass away, so it’s not uncommon for seniors to become isolated as they get older. Social isolation can lead to poor health and depression. Now, imagine living in a community where like-minded individuals are just a step outside your door, meeting new people is easy and friendships can be started with a friendly hello.

3. Easy to Socialize

Speaking of socializing, assisted living communities often have an impressive activity calendar. Today’s assisted living is a lot different than in the past and may offer:

• Group wellness activities such as meditation, Tai chi and yoga
• Gardening
• Baking and cooking classes
• Social clubs
• Wine and cheese tastings
• Poker or game nights
• Swim classes
• Wii sports
• Field trips
• Art classes and university lecture classes
• Art or music therapy
• Therapy animals

Every community will have different activities, so ask about event programming when you begin your research.

4. Help When You Need It

In an assisted living community, you or your loved one will have access to round-the-clock care. Professional, high-quality care gives peace of mind to loved ones and seniors. At an assisted living community, you’ll have help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and medication management. For more serious health concerns, staff can make arrangements for needed medical care.

5. Home Sweet Home

One of the main goals of assisted living is for you to live as independently as possible. You’ll do that by living in a private (or semi-private) apartment or similar type of residence. If you like to cook, many have small kitchens and plenty of storage space. Some communities offer resort-inspired amenities and services such as:

• Fitness centers
• Movie theaters
• Library
• Gardening areas
• Salon, barber and spa services
• Swimming pool
• Weekly housekeeping
• Linen services
• Transportation
• Yard maintenance and snow removal
• Concierge services
• Restaurant-style dining options

Assisted living communities support your health, wellness and overall quality of life.

6. More Time For You

Assisted Living communities offer abundant amenities and services that allow you more time to do the things you love. Come and go as you please, start a new hobby, restart one you stopped years ago or relax with friends. Less time doing chores and more time enjoying life sounds pretty sweet.

7. Get Healthy and Stay Healthy

Getting to the gym and eating healthy meals three times daily is practically built into your day at an assisted living community. You’ll no longer need to drive to the gym, walk in the rain or pop a tired frozen dinner in the microwave.

Close at hand, you’ll have access to group exercise classes, fitness centers, walking groups or water aerobics class. Many communities now have on-site professional chefs creating amazing meals and snacks with 5-star freshness, taste and nutrition. Assisted living makes a healthy lifestyle convenient and easy.