The primary quality of life markers includes access to good healthcare, loving relationships and meaningful work. It also involves getting enough rest, eating nutritious food and exercising regularly. Assisted living homes offer a range of care services, including regular three meals per day, assistance with medication management and social interaction. Residents often pay their rent, but the Assisted Living Program also offers beds for people who receive personal services from Medicaid.
Maintaining a Home
If a senior is experiencing frequent health issues and needs help with house chores, a care home may be their best option. This is because assisted living communities have 24-hour staff to assist with scheduled and unscheduled care. Nurses visit a resident’s home four times a month to assess and address potential health risks, such as someone forgetting to take their medication or falling over the toilet. CAPABLE occupational therapists also teach strength-building leg exercises and assist with household chores by helping seniors get out of the bathtub, reach shelves, or knock down cobwebs. They can even receive assistance with grocery shopping and meal preparation.
Staying Active
Getting enough physical activity is vital for seniors. Sedentary behavior can cause major health issues, such as an increased chance of falling, muscular wasting, and diminished strength and balance. People should select an activity they enjoy regularly to boost their mental health. This can lessen the isolation-related sensations that frequently accompany long-term loneliness. Assisted living homes Woodinville WA, also offer a sense of community and provide scheduled transportation services. This is helpful for seniors who have difficulty traveling independently. Some helped living communities also have wellness centers that promote healthy lifestyles and social engagement.
Getting Help with Daily Tasks
Keeping up with daily tasks can become increasingly difficult for seniors who live alone. If they can’t get help from family members or home care aides, consider assisted living. In addition to regular interaction with their peers, seniors at an assisted living facility can engage in activities they love. Whether working on a crossword puzzle, playing sudoku, or simply enjoying their favorite music, having a sense of purpose can improve the quality of life for older people. A strong social network also helps reduce depression and isolation. Those who feel lonely and isolated have shorter lifespans.
Getting Help with Medication
Many seniors fear losing their independence when they move from the comforts of their homes into a senior living community. But with today’s options, older adults can get the help they need and maintain their independence.
Assisted living homes often offer on-site physical, occupational, and speech therapy. They also help with daily medication management, including pill reminders and full pharmacy services. Unlike board and care or residential care facilities, assisted living communities are regulated by state agencies and “focus on providing quality of life for those who move there. The best part is that families can rest easy knowing their loved ones are safe and able to continue their lives as they move through different levels of care.
Getting Help with Transportation
Getting around is vital for seniors, particularly those with limited mobility. In many areas, specialized transportation systems offer door-to-door service for older adults and those with disabilities. Public transit agencies operate some, while non-profit or volunteer organizations provide others. Also, on-demand ride services have options that provide concierge service for seniors and are generally cheaper than taxi rates. Assisted living communities often offer scheduled transportation to doctor’s appointments and trips for essential errands like shopping and visiting friends. This can significantly improve the quality of life for many seniors.
Getting Help with Dining
In addition to meals, senior home care programs provide nutrition education and links to additional social services. For seniors who cannot travel, home-delivered meals provide a sense of security that helps them maintain a nutritional diet. Sometimes, volunteers deliver meals and may even be accompanied by a friendly visit. If you or a loved one are interested in receiving meal delivery, contact your local case management agency for information on how to apply.