Assisted Living – a lot of us have heard the term, but never really thought about what it entails. Is it similar to living in a nursing home? Do you keep your independence? What about meals and socializing? So many of these questions can be answered with a quick phone call to us at 804-373-CARE, but if you’re in a rush or just want a little info, this article is a good start.
So, what exactly is assisted living?
Assisted living facilities promote independence but offer a little bit of help – medications are managed for you, meals are provided in a lovely dining area or sent to your apartment, and minor help with normal tasks, such as getting dressed, from a qualified professional. Unlike a skilled nursing facility, or nursing home, assisted living facilities usually have a more home-like feel as opposed to a hospital-like feel. Some facilities even have apartment style living, giving one more freedom regarding space and decor choices. One can live like they’re at their own home rather than at a facility. Ours is one of many that allows the luxury of one’s own space. Assisted living is recommended for those that just need a little extra help, but have maintained most of their cognition.
What does assisted living provide?
Just because it’s a home-like environment, doesn’t mean residents don’t get professional medical care. Assisted living facilities provide a plethora of amenities – with most offering an emergency medical alert system, access to physicians, PT/OT, landscaping, and of course, a private living quarters. One can feel safe and secure while still being the independent person they’ve always been. Assisted living provides just a little assistance with daily tasks. Medications are maintained for you and if one requires light assistance with tasks or just needs a watchful eye, the staff is always able to help you. Residents are free to socialize with one another and participate in activities, such as outings to a local park or store, fairly often. Some even have classes, such as yoga and other fitness classes, or may have workshops on things like crafts. Most assisted living facilities also provide financial & housekeeping assistance, and medical transport to appointments. It is important to note that some facilities may not accept medical insurance as a method of payment, meaning one would have to pay privately. Medicaid or Medicare may be able to assist in some cases, though.
What is the difference between assisted living and skilled nursing?
Skilled nursing facilities, or SNFs, are what many people think of when they think of the term “nursing home”- a lot of residents are in hospital beds, in a hospital-esque room, usually with a roommate and a curtain to divide them. Care is more intense as well – SNFs assist with all functions, like dressing, bathing, and walking among others. They provide a more medical, and sometimes less personal, experience. Assisted living facilities promote independence by allowing residents to live in their own apartment or room, and while they can provide some assistance with normal activities of daily living, it’s not nearly as intense as a SNF can be. SNFs also provide services such as speech, physical, and occupational therapies. Skilled nursing facilities are a wonderful option for those that need a lot of assistance – they provide exponentially more care than an assisted living facility can give. Meals are usually done as a group and are in a more cafeteria-like setting. SNFs do have activities as well, but they are not as intense as those provided by an assisted living facility. Skilled nursing facilities are usually covered at least partially by insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid (if applicable). In a nutshell, skilled nursing facilities assist residents with every aspect of living, while assisted living facilities are more for those that need just a little help with regular activities.
Why Choose Assisted Living?
Assisted living facilities provide all the comforts of home while providing a watchful eye on you or your loved one. It’s a great choice for anyone that wants to maintain their independence while getting minor help with things such as dressing, housekeeping, and laundry. One is able to live in their own space and can decorate it as they so choose, giving even more comfort and choices for you or your loved one during their/your stay. Maintaining independence is an important aspect of life as we get older, and finding the right place that keeps the balance between assistance and independence can be hard. At Covenant Columns, we want to make sure you’re making the right choice. Our team does everything in its power to maintain your comfort and independence. When you’re here, you’re home. And of course, home is indeed the best place to be! Please reach out to us here or call us at 804-737-CARE (2273) for more information!
Sources: www.forbes.com, www.abrihealthcare.com, www.seniorliving.com