assisted-living

A Closer Look at
Assisted Living

September 1, 2014

The prospect of moving elderly parents out of their home and into a managed residential environment can be the most difficult decision a family can make. There’s the actual conversation, which is daunting enough – but there’s also the tough process of sorting through different living options and trying to pinpoint which one suits your parent’s needs.

Assisted Living is often misjudged based on partial, or even outdated, understanding of managed care. Here are the basics of Assisted Living, as it compares to other managed care options:

  • Independent Living: this is an ideal option for seniors who are ready to let go of day-to-day property and homecare responsibilities but want to live independently, with the convenience of 24-hour security and various other amenities. Community members usually have the choice of cooking for themselves or relying on the in-house culinary staff, as well as the option of in-house laundry facilities, transportation services, and staff-organized social gatherings, and other amenities.
  • Assisted Living: Assisted Living communities offer all of the above, with additional hands-on support in everyday tasks that have become difficult to perform solo. These tasks include bathing and attention to personal appearance; laundry and dressing; incontinence care; medication reminders, as well as cleaning and housekeeping. Assisted Living community members are understood to need that kind of help, while not requiring round-the-clock support 7 days a week.
  • Memory Care:  Memory Care offers intensive, 24-hour support in a therapeutic setting, with staff-managed meals, healthcare, and activities. Care programs are tailored to residents’ individual needs and designed to make them feel secure and successful each day. Managed activities include exercise and movement; music appreciation; outdoor recreation; and simple interactions designed to engage, stimulate, and encourage.

Ideally, you want your loved one to be a partner in this decision – but we know this isn’t always possible, depending on their cognitive capacity and state of mind. Consult their physician and ask them concrete questions about what physical needs exist now and are likely to develop in the short term. Include any others in the support circle, like home health aides or social workers.

We know from experience that each family brings its own unique hopes and concerns to this decision, and we’re here to help. Call us anytime at 781-619-9320 to discuss in-depth different residential options, and get your questions answered.