What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living is a residential community that allows older adults to maintain their independence while receiving support from trained staff members. Residents have access to nutritious meals, social activities and assistance with activities of daily living. One of the main differences between assisted living and nursing home care is that nursing homes have a clinical environment, while assisted living communities feature a home-like atmosphere.

Assisted living communities typically offer a wide range of services to ensure residents are safe and comfortable. Some communities offer medication management, a service that helps residents take their medications correctly and consistently. Staff members may remind residents to take their medications or assist with the application of ointments and other topical prescriptions. Residents also receive help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, getting dressed and personal grooming, ensuring that they’re clean and well-groomed at all times.

Good nutrition is important for older adults, so assisted living communities usually offer one to three meals per day in a dining room where residents can gather to socialize while they eat. An assisted living community may also offer special meals for older adults with diabetes, kidney disease and other chronic medical conditions. Depending on the community, residents may also have access to housekeeping services, limited medical services and a wide range of recreational activities.

One of the main advantages of assisted living is that residents get to remain in a homelike environment without having to worry about property taxes, maintenance and home repairs. If a pipe leaks or the air conditioning stops working, the assisted living community is responsible for addressing the problem. Another advantage of assisted living is that residents get to maintain much of their independence. In many cases, residents are encouraged to bring their own furniture and decorative items from home. Residents are also free to attend social activities and have visitors.

Moving to an assisted living community is a great option for older adults who have been struggling with loneliness or isolation. Residents participate in a variety of activities together, including eating, visiting local museums and playing games, creating many opportunities for friendships to blossom. Finally, assisted living enhances the safety and well-being of residents from all walks of life. Older adults who have trouble managing their finances, preparing meals or performing basic activities of daily living get the support they need to maintain their health and avoid injuries.