The elderly population is growing, and as they age, many are considering the possibility of assisted living facilities. These facilities offer a more relaxed lifestyle that offers assistance with daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and grooming. What should you expect if you’re thinking about checking out an assisted living facility? Read on to learn more about what these communities have to offer.
What Is an Assisted Living Facility?
While it may seem like a nursing home, an assisted living community is different because residents are not bed-bound or require around-the-clock care. Residents of these communities have personal bedrooms and private baths. These spaces are designed for those who need assistance with their daily lives but can still maintain some independence.
Assisted living facilities also offer common spaces such as dining areas, activity rooms, and intercom systems, so they’re able to stay connected with other residents of the community. In addition to the basic services these facilities offer, many provide several activities, including arts and crafts classes, organized games days, and more. Many assisted living facilities also feature on-site fitness centers, swimming pools, and other activities.
Daily Life in an Assisted Living Facility
When deciding where your loved ones will reside when they get older, it’s important that you choose a community that offers the highest level of care possible regardless if they require assistance with daily tasks or not. While there are certain tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating that may need to be completed by staff at these communities, residents still have plenty of freedom, including visiting friends and family members when they miss them. Many residents also find opportunities to make new friends who share their interests while joining in on the activities offered by the community.
What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing an Assisted Living Facility?
If you are ready to start researching senior communities and want to know what factors you should consider, consult with your family members as they can be a great help. Not only will they be able to tell you what the most important aspects of an assisted living facility are, but they may also have some suggestions as to which locations they prefer. Some considerations include:
- Services: Ask yourself what sort of services you’d like to have provided by the community and find out whether or not they’re available. Do you want your loved one to be able to enjoy entertainment in a common area? Are there certain activities such as crafts or games that are important for them to take part in? Many seniors enjoy having access to these types of activities and facilities.
- Location: Where you choose to have your loved one reside can affect their ability to remain active, social, or maintain independence. If you can help out with transportation occasionally, having them live close by will make it easier for you to visit them and do things together.
- Quality of Care: Look for assisted living facilities with certified staff who have years of experience in the field. If you feel like a given facility doesn’t meet these standards, then look elsewhere, as this could be an important indicator that they may not provide the best care.
- Environment: Consider whether or not a particular community offers the type of environment that both you and your loved one are looking for. Are they looking to live in a quiet place with plenty of privacy? Or do they enjoy talking with others often and feel that an active community would work better for them?
Best Assisted Living Facilities Sarasota FL
When touring an assisted living facility, you should always ask questions. The answers you receive are the best judge of how well a community will serve as a place for your loved one to live and thrive. Many communities recommend having a list of questions prepared before visiting so you can make the most out of your time there. At DeSoto Palms Assisted Living Community, we make it easy for you to learn about our community and the services we offer.