The move to assisted living is a wonderful way to help a loved one in need. It’s a move to a home that truly understands how to help. Assisted living blends independence and professional care together to help your loved one every day—but there are some key factors to consider.
While there are no strict physical requirements for assisted living, you do need to think about your loved one’s health and mobility. Assisted living is helpful for those who enjoy independence but need some everyday care. If your loved one has cognitive decline or complex medical needs, they may benefit from another type of care.
What Is Assisted Living?
Independence is a valuable thing. It plays a direct role in quality of life—but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy to stay entirely independent. Age can sometimes create challenging situations that make it much more difficult—or even dangerous—for older adults to stay autonomous.
This is when assisted living becomes an excellent choice. This is a senior living lifestyle based on meeting your loved one when they need help. They’re encouraged to stay independent in their day-to-day life and receive support when something becomes challenging.
Whether your loved one struggles with managing medication, dressing, housekeeping, or any other daily activity, assisted living can help. This lifestyle is about managing personal growth through unconditional love and support—just like your loved one deserves.
The Benefits of Assisted Living
These communities are a perfect match for seniors who value their independence. Every resident in assisted living gets a customized care plan. These outline your loved one’s specific needs and abilities to meet them when they need support.
With a wide range of services and amenities, assisted living also offers plenty of benefits. These communities offer:
- On-site activities, groups, and clubs
- Fitness classes
- Different dining options
- Access to an on-site library
Here at Parsons House Cypress, we even provide access to our very own chapel. In our community, your loved one can celebrate life every day with a range of convenient and exciting programs.
Who Qualifies for Assisted Living?
If you’re considering assisted living for a loved one, think about their specific abilities and needs. Though assisted living is a wonderful option, it’s not the only type of senior living.
Ideally, a person moving to assisted living should be capable of remaining mostly independent. If your loved one lives with mobility challenges or cognitive decline, assisted living may not be ideal.
To qualify for assisted living, your loved one should:
- Be over the age of 65 (this age varies depending on the specific community)
- Require assistance with daily activities
- Be medically and cognitively stable
- Benefit from the safety and support provided in assisted living
This lifestyle is designed for those who want to stay independent but need a little help.
How to Tell if It’s Time for Assisted Living
To determine if it’s time for assisted living, spend time with your loved one. The conversation about senior living can seem challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. Stay positive, be prepared, and try asking if your loved one:
- Has any difficulty with managing their daily tasks
- Struggles with transportation or getting to appointments
- Feels lonely, isolated, or is withdrawing from social activities
- Has experienced recent falls or other safety concerns at home
- Needs reminders to take medications or manage their healthcare
- Seems overwhelmed by household chores or maintenance
These indicate it’s time for a change. Your loved one deserves a life full of unconditional love, support, and care. Assisted living can be a great way to get them the support they deserve in a way that makes a difference.
Alternatives to Assisted Living
Assisted living isn’t the only option when considering senior care. Your loved one has options, depending on their specific situation.
Some alternatives include:
- Independent living
- Memory care
- Skilled nursing
Independent Living
Independent living is a great choice for older adults who want to simplify their lifestyle. This lifestyle isn’t about providing professional care—it’s about giving a place to call home. Independent living offers a maintenance-free lifestyle to older adults looking to downsize and enjoy a more convenient life.
Memory Care
Memory care is designed for older adults living with dementia or cognitive decline. This lifestyle is specially tailored to address memory-related challenges. Memory care provides a safe, structured routine to address the unique nature of dementia. It also involves daily therapies and activities designed to maintain cognitive abilities.
Skilled Nursing
Skilled nursing provides hospital-quality care in a home-style environment. It’s a great choice for older adults who need more intensive support. If your loved one is managing a chronic illness, recovering from a hospital stay, or in need of rehabilitation, skilled nursing is an excellent choice.
Is It Time for Assisted Living?
Assisted living revolves around health, quality of life, and everyday support. Every person is unique, and assisted living treats your loved one as the individual they are. And here at Parsons House Cypress, we know how to help in a way that makes a difference.In our community, we offer unconditional love to nurture your loved one, and we’re ready to help. Book a tour with us today, and let’s celebrate life—together.