The Assisted Living Effect: Better Health and Happiness

Many seniors resist assisted living by stating that they “don’t want to be in a home,” but often, education about the many assisted living options available today, in addition to touring the communities, can help families and their elderly loved ones choose the best option for their unique situations.

In fact, research has shown that assisted living often trumps living alone as communities have expanded their market by providing fun dining, retirement, socialization and other services.

Read more about “the assisted living effect” and how seniors can often find better health and happiness in assisted living.

The Assisted Living Effect: Improved Health and Happiness

As we age, our living situations change. Assisted living is a great option for seniors who need more help with activities of daily living (ADLs) than the family can provide at home and for seniors who need more socialization.

Other reasons to consider moving into assisted living to improve the health and quality of life of your loved one include:

1. Chef-prepared nutritious meals.

Senior nutrition is a big problem as many seniors are malnourished these days. Assisted living offers nutritious, often chef-prepared cuisine catered for specific medical conditions and elderly needs. Residents are served three meals a day tailored to the changing health needs of seniors and some luxury communities even offer luxury dining.

2. Help with activities of daily living.

Family caregivers are also generally responsible for helping with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and eating when a senior loved one lives at home. In other cases, the family or the senior themselves must bear the cost of a home care aide. Both of these options can cause personal and financial strain on the family. In contrast, one of the most basic tenets of assisted living is helping older adults with these ADLs so that they can continue to function as independently as possible.

3. Intellectual stimulation.

Communities offer many opportunities for learning, such as computer classes, book clubs, art classes, gardening and more. Some communities are even located near a college so that residents can take advantage of nearby campus resources, including courses and cultural offerings.

4. No stress of housekeeping or transportation.

Keeping up with daily chores, housekeeping and appointments is often stressful for not only seniors, but also their family. The vast majority of these burdens are relieved in assisted living ad the community offers housekeeping and transportation services.

5. Physical activity and fitness.

Many assisted living communities offer gym equipment, exercise classes and even personal trainers to help with physical therapy and elder fitness.

6. Safe living environment.

Often home modifications and in-home care are required for a safe living environment in the family home, which can be very expensive. Assisted living is designed for mobility and accessibility while also offering expert care and medical attention, if needed.

7. Social activity.

Living at home can be isolating, especially if the senior lives alone. It can be difficult for the elderly to maintain their social relationships when they are retired. Assisted living offers socialization through planned activities and outings, such as field trips, dancing and cultural events. Daily living in the common areas also offers fun and socialization for seniors.

Transitioning to Assisted Living

Making the decision to move to assisted living is now much easier since families have learned the benefits of senior health and happiness. The information in this Senior Living Planning Guide also offers a helpful resource to answer questions.

Be prepared to have a family conversation and support your aging loved one emotionally through this new journey. Try not to allow the emotional and logistical challenges of finding senior living overwhelm you.

Remember that a trusted Senior Living Advisor is also available to answer questions or help you in your search to find the perfect new home for your aging parent.

Caitlin Burm

Caitlin Burm is an award-winning editor and writer who has written extensively about education, health and senior care, most recently at A Place for Mom and previously at Arizona State University and the City of Tempe, Arizona. She thrives on content strategy and storytelling and resides in Phoenix with her daughter and husband.