A Basic Guide to Assisted Living

The older people get, the more they’ll crave independence. As their physical and mental capabilities slowly degrade, their biggest fear is that one day they might not be able to do the things they normally do. The majority of the elderly do not want to be stripped of their independence. Some of them may deny their need for help without realizing how dangerous this could be. Luckily, there is a way to get help while allowing seniors to be as independent as they can be. That’s what assisted living in WI offers.  

According to surveys, one in every five American adults ages 85 years old and above say they need or are currently are receiving assistance with activities of daily living. If you are on the brink of burnout from being a 24/7 caregiver to your parents, now is the time to consider assisted living.  

Understanding Assisted Living

What Is Assisted Living?

An assisted living community is a place designed for the older population. It’s a place that provides personalized care in a homey environment. This community is best for seniors who require special care and support.

To qualify, the elderly will have to undergo a thorough health assessment based on state regulations. Aside from assistance, assisted living communities to promote social interaction and help seniors lead a healthy lifestyle.  

What Are the Services Offered in Assisted Living?

You might wonder what’s in it for your loved ones if they are placed in assisted living. Well, some of the usual services being offered in these communities include bathroom assistance, help in grooming and dressing, medication management, social activities and programs, transportation and laundry services, meals, and housekeeping.  

The major advantage of an assisted living community is that your loved ones get 24/7 care. No matter what time of day it is, a staff member will always be available to offer assistance whether it’s support, care, or safety.

All residents are encouraged to bring some of their personal possessions so that they will be comfortable and at ease in their new home.  

Before your loved ones are taken in, they will be assessed so that the facility can create a personalized service plan to meet their unique needs and to make the care personal. This will aid in their transition since they will be getting the service they expect and paid for.

There are also assisted living communities that offer memory care services for residents who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. In memory care, the residents will have different dining rooms and their food will be individualized as it will be based on their needs.  

What Services Are Not Offered in Assisted Living?

Most people think assisted living is similar to nursing home care or a skilled nursing facility. Well, it’s not. In a skilled nursing facility, all the residents are cared for by specially trained medical personnel.  

This is ideal for residents who require a high level of medical care regardless of if it’s a long-term or short-term stay. Extended care and skilled nursing care are licensed by Medicaid or Medicare. Their primary goals are short-term rehab and long-term medical care.

You’ve probably already heard of supportive services before. Each state has a different definition of supportive services.

There are times when the level of care of supportive services is the same as assisted living but most times they are for adults with developmental disabilities.  

What Are Examples of Activities of Daily Living?  

The most common reason why family members want to take their loved ones to an assisted living facility is that the elderly can no longer perform activities of daily living on their own.

According to research, ideal candidates are those who need help with at least two daily activities. Studies reveal that residents need help with the following ADLs:  

• 64 percent need help with bathing
• 57 percent need assistance with walking
• 48 percent require help with dressing
• 40 percent cannot go to the toilet on their own
• 29 percent need support with bed transfer
• 19 percent cannot eat on their own

What’s It Like to Be Living in an Assisted Living Community?

If you’re familiar with independent living, then it’s easy to imagine what assisted living communities are like since they share a lot of similarities, as both offer some of the same benefits. These communities also offer unique programs tailored to the needs of the residents.

Statistics show that assisted living communities are thriving. In fact, in the U.S. alone there are approximately more than 29,000 assisted living facilities.

Although each community comes in various settings, all of them share the same goals: to treat the elderly with the utmost respect and offering privacy while promoting independence.  

What Are the Benefits of Assisted Living?

The benefits go beyond helping residents with activities of daily living. Family members who have sent their parents to assisted living communities say they noticed a significant improvement in their loved one's quality of life. Another benefit is that the burden is lifted off the shoulders of caregivers. This makes the lives of both parties easier.

A Quality of Life in Assisted Living Survey conducted in 2019 showed that 87 percent of elderly residing in assisted living communities and 78 percent of family members are extremely satisfied with their overall experience with assisted living.  

Is It Time to Take Your Loved Ones to an Assisted Living Community?

It’s not an easy decision to give up your role as a caregiver, but sometimes you need to take a step back and see the bigger picture. Can you truly commit to becoming a 24/7 caregiver? Will you be able to give up your job and your life in general just to care for your parents?  

At some point, you’ll need to make a decision to make everyone’s lives easier and less stressful. You can start by checking if your parents have had at least one fall in the past year, if they can no longer prepare their own meals, or if you think their nutritional needs aren’t met.  

If you notice your senior parents have a hard time maneuvering around the house or if they need help with bathing and getting dressed, then you need to start considering assisted living communities.

Are You Looking for Assisted Living in WI?

Are you searching for an assisted living community for your loved ones? Look no further. At Senior Living Experts, our advisors will work closely with you and your family to assist you in finding the best place for your parents. We have been working with over 230 communities and we’ve helped hundreds of seniors live better and more comfortable lives with the array of options we offer. Call us today to learn more about our services.