Many of the ideas and stigmas surrounding senior living communities are based on outdated models and ideas. In fact, moving to a senior living community at the right time can dramatically enhance your quality of life in all areas. Who exactly does this pertain to, and how do you know if you or your loved one is ready to make the move to a senior living community? Read on to learn the criteria to look for in those who would benefit most from a senior living community.
Social needs are not being fulfilled
It is common for seniors to no longer see people as frequently or partake in activities or hobbies that they once loved. Sometimes physical limitations have restricted them, or they may feel mentally overwhelmed at the thought of arranging these activities. Friends or family with whom they once enjoyed these hobbies may have moved or passed on, and the thought of doing them solo is not appealing. Senior living communities provide a wide variety of group activities to participate in and offer ample opportunities to meet new friends experiencing a similar stage of life. Birthday parties, workout classes, group outings, pickleball matches, barbeques and more are all wonderful opportunities to make new connections and enjoy community amenities together.
Security is top of mind
Often, as people age they lose a critical sense of security — whether it’s feeling vulnerable at home alone or even behind the wheel. Certain medical or mental conditions can also contribute to seniors feeling unsafe or anxious living independently. Early-onset Alzheimer’s or dementia, for example, can cause seniors to experience confusion or even delusions which can be unsettling for both themselves and their loved ones. If your loved one or spouse is experiencing a mental or physical health condition, you may be concerned for their safety and well-being. Living with this perpetual fear can be draining and can contribute to poor mental and physical health over time. Living in a senior living community eliminates this fear, as medical assistance and support are readily available. Senior living communities feature robust security systems and employ security staff as well, which ensure that residents feel safe and out of harm’s way.
Everyday life is becoming overwhelming
Chores like cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, and taking care of your home can begin to feel overwhelming as you age, especially if your home is too big for your needs. Certain chores may include elements that become more difficult for seniors including driving to pick up groceries or dry cleaning, climbing up a ladder to fix a lightbulb, shoveling snow on the driveway, etc. Living in a senior living community dissolves these struggles as many of these chores are done for you every day, freeing up your mental and physical energy for more creative and engaging pursuits (such as art classes, card games, and group excursions). The result is less worry and stress which prolongs mental and physical health for you or your loved one. If basic tasks like bathing and dressing become problematic, begin to look into a senior living community more urgently.
Health problems are an increasing concern
An unfortunate truth of aging is that health problems can begin to manifest, and this can be a difficult reality if you are living alone or are responsible for caring for a loved one who might have health issues of their own. You may have one or more medical conditions which require being aware of medications and drug interactions, dosing, timing, and other treatments. You may have multiple doctors’ appointments which are difficult to get to on your own, or you may worry about health problems arising while living independently without support. A senior living community can provide around the clock medical assistance, transportation to and from medical appointments and excellent in-house care; consider this element of life handled for you. Senior living communities specialize in offering top-quality care for common health issues experienced by seniors. This means reduced mental and physical stress for you and your loved ones, who can rest knowing that you are well-cared for.
Your caregiving situation isn’t sustainable
Many seniors require increased care as they age, and sometimes this responsibility falls to loved ones to serve as caregivers. If someone requires increased care over time or develops more health issues, caregivers risk reaching burnout. Senior living communities are extremely well-versed in offering care to seniors and are able to anticipate and meet needs before they even arise. Allowing a senior living community to take over caregiving also preserves relationships with friends, family, and loved ones who may have busy lives of their own. Then, visiting with one another becomes a joy, an opportunity to catch up and connect, and a chance to make new memories together.
As with most things, it’s best to research your options before there’s a need; the benefits of living in a senior living community can be enjoyed well in advance of that. But if several of the above-mentioned points resonate as true to your situation, a senior living community would likely be a great fit for you and something to consider more immediately. Making the move relieves you and your loved ones from the pressures and fears surrounding getting older without the proper support, security, or community. Many of the ideas and stigmas surrounding senior living communities are based on outdated models and ideas, and do not match the reality of the myriad array of amenities, top-quality compassionate care, engaging schedule of social activities, and impressive security offered in our communities. At Bridge Senior Living, we strive to deliver all of this, and more, to ensure our communities set the bar for excellence across the industry and that our residents feel fulfilled, secure, and free to pursue their desires. Explore all the communities we operate here.
