From aging in place to nursing home care, living options for seniors in 2023 are more varied than ever. Assisted living provides the ideal balance of care for many seniors, offering tailored support that nurtures independence during retirement.
Why is Independence Important for Aging Seniors?
Retaining a sense of independence in retirement has a whole host of benefits. With a lifetime of wisdom and unique experiences, seniors know themselves better than anyone else. If an aging adult suddenly feels they can’t live with autonomy and independence, they may feel out of control or less of an individual. This can ultimately lead to poor mental well-being or low self-worth. On the contrary, seniors who can remain safely independent can benefit from feelings of purpose, accomplishment, and social inclusion, leading to mental and physical health benefits.
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is a type of senior living community that allows residents to live a life with maximum freedom, choice, and independence while also receiving any support they need with activities of daily living (ADLs).
When a senior moves to assisted living, they will typically benefit from:
- A personalized care plan that meets their individual needs.
- Caregivers available to offer support around the clock.
- On-site amenities (e.g., laundry, beauty salon, housekeeping).
- Freshly prepared meals and snacks served daily in a social dining area.
- A choice of on-site activities, classes, and special events.
- Enhanced safety features (e.g., accessible bathroom, elevator access, emergency call system).
How Does Assisted Living Empower Seniors to Remain Independent?
1. Accessible Activities.
On-site activities promote independence by encouraging seniors to enjoy hobbies in a safe, comfortable, friendly setting. When exploring senior living communities, ask about their regular classes, events, and activities; some communities may offer a better range than others or include an activity you or your loved one is particularly interested in. At Argent Court, for example, available activities include yoga, worship services, baking, and spa days.
2.Care Plans and Adapted Facilities.
In assisted living, care plans are structured based on a senior’s individual ADL support needs. As a result, residents can receive just the right level of care while retaining as much of their valued independence as possible. Care plans are subject to frequent reviews and can be adjusted to suit developing needs and preferences. From a practical perspective, assisted living communities are structurally designed to support seniors with reduced mobility. For example, Argent Court Senior Living features accessible bathrooms that help seniors bathe, use the toilet, and complete other personal care tasks as independently and safely as possible.
3.More Free Time With Fewer Responsibilities.
In assisted living, seniors are freed from tasks that often become more difficult with age, like home maintenance, cooking, grocery shopping, and cleaning. With less time attending to these responsibilities, seniors can spend their newfound free time enjoying activities they love in and outside their community. At Argent Court Assisted Living, residents benefit from three delicious meals daily and convenient weekly housekeeping and laundry services. While freshly prepared meals are served daily, each apartment has a small kitchenette for residents who wish to maintain their own beverages and snacks.
4.Daily Opportunities to be Social.
Life in assisted living comes with opportunities to enjoy a rich social life. For example, Argent Court residents have access to various inviting communal spaces, and mealtimes are a social occasion enjoyed in a comfortable dining room (a private dining room is also available for special celebrations). Regular house socials, relaxed movie and game nights, and various classes and activities encourage residents to form friendships that suit their personalities.
5.Convenient Visitation, Transportation, and Outings.
Being less able to get out of the home, attend social events, and visit friends and family is often a key contributor to the loss of independence for aging seniors. Senior living empowers residents to remain independent by offering transportation services and organized outings. These services can allow seniors to run personal errands, attend appointments, and meet with friends in the wider community. Residents can also meet with loved ones outside the community as we welcome flexible visits from friends and family caregivers.
Explore our Texas Assisted Living Community
At Argent Court Senior Living, we firmly believe in the benefits of independence for seniors, which is why everything from the physical environment to our daily routines and activities promotes choice and autonomy. To tour our caring community and discover how we can help you or your loved one find a new sense of freedom and independence, get in touch today. We look forward to speaking with you!