There are no two ways about it: the thought of moving into an
assisted living or skilled nursing facility is something that many
older adults begin to dread as they age. The reasons for this are
perfectly rational: none of us want to leave the home we've worked
to build for most of our lives; none of us want to feel like we're
losing our independence. But how much of those fears are based upon
a negative stigma? How much of that stigma is actually true of the
assisted living experience that is available today?
All too often, the move to an assisted living or skilled nursing
facility comes immediately after the effects of a critical
accident. The urgency of this situation can be stressful, and can
lead to a rushed decision. The idea that assisted living is a last
resort can drive people to wait too long to consider their changing
needs. But senior services don't have to be seen as something to be
avoided; a good support program strives to maintain consistency and
enable individuals to lead the lives they choose by alleviating the
growing burdens of every day routine - such as navigating a complex
schedule of medications, battling joint or back pain to enter and
exit the bathtub, or struggling to keep up with seasonal
maintenance around and inside a large house. The difference between
a positive and negative experience can be as simple as one's
perception and attitude associated with the issue at hand.
By thinking of assisted living as a way to maintain independence
and happiness rather than an end result when one has lost it, a
family can encourage active participation from everyone involved in
finding the right place for your loved one. Being prepared in
advance increases the chance that your loved one will be happy with
his or her destination - that the location, amenities, and people
that comprise the living experience will support his or her vision
of life.
Modern assisted living and skilled nursing facilities have a
wider range of specialized and customizable amenities than ever
before. If you or a loved one is starting to find that certain
everyday tasks or responsibilities are interfering with the ability
to enjoy free time, look into the support options that your
community may be able to provide. You might be surprised at how
much difference some help can make!
Michael Holley
Marketing & Communications
Chicago Skilled Nursing
Chicago Senior
Living