Being responsible for the care of an aging relative isn’t easy, especially if you’ve started to suspect you’re no longer able to provide the expert care your loved one needs. Many family caregivers struggle with the prospect of seeking out assisted living for their relative, worrying they will be unhappy, lonely or unable to live as independently as they’d like.
However, assisted living can often offer the perfect balance of attentive, professional care for seniors and valuable reassurance for family caregivers. Here are just 7 of many ways assisted living can provide the peace of mind you deserve.
1. Attentive, Around the Clock Care
It’s not uncommon for family caregivers to worry that they’re unable to provide the level of care their loved one needs. When you began caring for your parent or relative, you may well have been capable of doing so – but circumstances inevitably change. Perhaps you’ve got a new job that means you have less spare time to spend with them, or maybe their needs are becoming too great for you to cope with alone. Assisted living could be the ideal solution to put your mind completely at ease. These communities like Argent Court typically offer around the clock expert care, and with often impressively high staff to resident ratios, your loved one will receive all the time and patience they truly deserve.
2. Multidisciplinary Teams of Professionals
Assisted living communities in TX are comprised of a team of trained professionals with a diverse range of specialities and unique skills. Many facilities have on-site registered nurses to take care of medical needs, alongside expert caregivers trained in compassionate care and medication management. Some assisted living communities also have affiliations with local medical and rehabilitation centers, meaning residents can easily access facilities that cater to their unique needs.
3. Living to Suit Your Loved One
It’s a common misconception that moving into assisted living means losing the independence to live life as you please. In their new home, your loved one will be encouraged to live as independently as they are safely able to. Many assisted living facilities offer complimentary transportation to local towns, allowing seniors to get out and about – whether this be to meet a friend for coffee, attend an appointment or do some shopping. In assisted living communities, daily schedules are usually flexible, too, so your loved one will be free to eat, sleep, socialize and relax as and when it suits them.
4. A Safe Environment for Seniors
As a family caregiver, the safety of your loved one is of course a top priority. If you feel their home is no longer as safe and secure as it once was, it might be time to think about assisted living for that extra peace of mind. Assisted living facilities are designed and constructed with their senior residents in mind. With all areas offering maximum accessibility and safety features like alarm buttons, secured entrances, handrails and ramps, you’ll know your loved one is as safe from falls as possible. What’s more, if an accident or emergency does happen, most assisted living facilities have highly trained staff on site at all hours to offer quick medical assistance.
5. Expertly Devised Nutrition Plans
It’s not unusual for family caregivers to worry about whether their loved one’s nutritional needs are being met. After all, nutrition for seniors can be complex, particularly if they’re losing their appetite, have dementia or struggle to eat independently. Seniors in assisted living typically receive three meals and snacks daily, prepared by an in-house Chef. Your loved one’s daily menu will take their personal nutritional needs plus food allergies, intolerances and preferences into account, ensuring they stay nourished, satisfied and energized throughout the day.
6. Daily Social Opportunities
Loneliness is a common struggle for aging seniors, particularly if they’ve recently lost a spouse or close friends. As a family caregiver, you might worry about your loved one’s diminished social life but be unable to provide the around the clock company you’d like to. In assisted living, your parent or relative will be constantly surrounded by peers and caregivers, cultivating a rich social environment for them to enjoy. Mealtimes, social events and on-site groups and activities all provide the chance for your loved one to make new friends organically, enhancing their mental and cognitive wellbeing in the process.
7. Physical Activity and Mental Stimulation
With a range of on-site activities usually available, you needn’t worry about your loved one feeling bored. Most assisted living facilities host groups for various physical, spiritual and creative pursuits – so whatever your loved one likes and whatever their abilities, there’s bound to be something they can enjoy! Aside from reducing boredom, encouraging creativity and boosting mental and physical wellbeing, group activities are a great place to make new friends and combat loneliness.
Moving your loved one into an assisted living facility is a big decision, and it can feel like a tough call to make. But if you’re struggling to balance their care with other commitments or feel overwhelmed by their needs, it may well be the perfect choice for both of you.
With the peace of mind that their health and happiness are in expert hands, you will be able to re-prioritize other commitments, while rediscovering your own social life and hobbies. Surprisingly, moving your loved one into assisted living can even help you enjoy more true quality time with them. Free from the pressure of being solely responsible for their care, you’ll be free to chat, laugh and create cherished memories with your parent at leisure.