What is Assisted Living?

Assisted Living is a type of senior housing that is designed to provide both housing and care services ranging from basic (meal preparation, putting on shoes for example) all the way to more complex services (bathing, dressing, incontinence care, dementia and hospice down the road if needed).  Typically, they cost less than a nursing home but can provide many of the same services.  They tend to be the best fit for those who no longer are able to maintain a home and need some care services.  Often, due to the social nature of them, they tend to be a great fit for those whose health has declined but are not in need of a nursing home yet.  My New Villa can help work with you to determine whether Assisted Living is a good fit for you or your loved one.


What Types of Care Are Available in Assisted Living?

Each community or residential care home differs in the level of care they can deliver, what is included in the base pricing, and the type and ratio of staff to provide that care.  Below are some typical services that most offer but each place is different and many options exist. 

  • Meal preparation and assistance
  • Basic Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • TransportationAccess to medical services
  • Social programs
  • 24-hour security
  • Assistance with medication
  • Incontinence care
  • Help with Activities of Daily Living like bathing, dressing, eating

Signs it May be Time for Assisted Living

 

Needs Help With:

  • Cleaning
  • Transportation
  • Bathing
  • Food Preparation
  • Medication
  • Dressing

Confusion/Difficulty Managing Medications:

Photo by WanjaJacob/iStock / Getty Images
Photo by WanjaJacob/iStock / Getty Images

Showing Symptoms of Care Needs Escalating Beyond Current Support:

  • Home safety issues
  • Recent falls
  • Inability to care for / maintain home
  • Unable to drive safely / accidents driving
  • Difficulty managing money
  • Reduced social activities
  • Health or hygiene is suffering
  • Weight loss
  • Not bathing regularly
  • Wandering