Senior living communities aren’t a cookie-cutter space for long-term care.
They differ in their culture, level of care, and approach to well-being, which is why becoming familiar with how assisted living and nursing homes differ matters when finding the right care for your loved one.
Assisted living is an ideal choice for relatively independent, social, and self-sufficient older adults who require an extra hand in managing daily tasks. Alternatively, nursing home care is a great option for people needing ongoing supervision and medical care.
Evaluating your mother’s physical, social, and emotional needs can help you find the space they will thrive in.
All About Assisted Living
Assisted living is a type of long-term care that combines housing, personal care, and access to social opportunities. Residents are relatively independent, self-sufficient, and mobile but benefit from extra support with activities of daily living (ADLs) like personal grooming, meal preparation, or managing medication.
Generally, residents can no longer manage to live safely or comfortably on their own. They may have minor chronic health conditions or mobility limitations but still enjoy fostering their independence where possible. Besides, they value the company of others and enjoy social and recreational activities with other residents.
With trained staff available around the clock, assisted living helps bridge the gap between independent living and full-time intensive care, making it an attractive option for families and prospective residents.
This approach to care also benefits resident’s families. With a loved one in assisted living, you can rest easy knowing they’re in trusted hands. As professionals focus on caregiving responsibilities, you can take a step back and focus on the moments that matter.
Demystifying Nursing Homes
When people think of nursing homes, traditional stereotypes can often cloud the picture. In the state of Colorado, nursing homes are required to meet state and federal regulations. Also, there are laws in place to verify that residents’ rights and care are appropriately met.
Nursing homes are modern, supportive healthcare environments for older adults needing continuous medical attention and care. Residents have access to specialized staff, like registered nurses, therapists, and doctors, to address chronic illnesses or rehabilitation needs.
Because of their specialized staff, nursing home residents are often people with significant medical conditions or mobility issues who need help with almost every aspect of daily living. They may require skilled nursing care if they’re recovering from surgery or managing complex health conditions.
Therefore, nursing home care is ideal for people requiring intensive, ongoing medical care that cannot be provided in assisted living or at home. If your parent needs 24/7 medical supervision or extensive medical support, a nursing home may be the right option.
When Is It Time for Assisted Living?
If your mom has trouble managing basic tasks but is still relatively self-sufficient and doesn’t require intensive medical care, she may enjoy the perks of assisted living.
If you’re still unsure, there are some signs to look for that suggest your loved one may benefit from assisted living care.
Difficulty Managing Daily ADLs
If previously basic and simple tasks, like personal grooming or household chores, become more challenging, assisted living support can offer an extra hand with ADLs while maintaining independence.
Residents are free to focus their time, attention, and energy on self-fulfillment instead of spending lengthy time on daily tasks.
Declining Mobility or Health
If your parent needs mobility aids such as walkers, canes, or wheelchairs but remains relatively mobile, assisted living can provide valuable support. Additionally, it can assist those who struggle with managing chronic health conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or high blood pressure due to medication mismanagement or missed appointments.
Although this isn’t a replacement for medical care, staff can help residents stay on track with ongoing health monitoring, transportation to appointments, and medication schedules. As long as your parent doesn’t require intensive medical care, we can manage chronic health and mobility concerns.
Social Withdrawal
Because of life changes, older adults are more likely to socially disconnect, harming their overall well-being by increasing the risk of depression and other health concerns.
If your mom spends most of her time alone, assisted living offers a built-in community with engaging activities like group dinners, games, and fitness classes to promote connection and joy. Though it may be an adjustment, with time, your parent will grow to love and appreciate a welcoming, socially connected community.
Caregiver Burnout
The role of a caregiver is rewarding but never-ending and can be challenging for one person to handle without the right support. It’s okay to seek help.
It takes a community to care for a loved one. And, in assisted living, your mom can access the professional care and social community she needs while giving you time to focus on your well-being. A balance that benefits both of you.
Why Choose Assisted Living?
Assisted living is about more than providing quality care. It’s about creating a vibrant, fulfilling lifestyle for older adults.
With many services and amenities at residents’ disposal, here’s why assisted living might be the right, comfortable choice for your mom:
- Social engagement: Residents can connect through programmed social outings, activities, clubs, and fitness classes to foster a sense of friendship and community.
- Freedom and support: With staff available 24/7 to meet residents’ unique care needs, assisted living promotes independence while offering just the right amount of help.
- In-house therapies: Residents have access to therapy services like physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
- Health and wellness programs: With a holistic approach to wellness, assisted living offers fitness programs, group activities, nutritious meals, and other resources to keep residents active and engaged.
- Safe space: On-site staff are available 24/7 to support residents’ ongoing care needs, with security monitoring, and open layouts to prevent the risk of falls, injuries, and other accidents.
Help Mom Thrive
Finding the right supportive environment for your mom is a labor of love, and requires you to evaluate her physical, emotional, and social needs.
If you believe your mom will thrive in assisted living, connect with our Village at Belmar team. Schedule a tour of our community and bring your mother along for the fun!
