Most seniors resist the realization that they can no longer manage daily life alone and procrastinate until something bad happens. Sometimes a senior will take a fall and be injured, or they make a dangerous medication mix-up, or personal care and housekeeping begin to slip which can also lead to negative outcomes. Rather than wait for the worst-case scenario, however, consider these reasons to minimize the risks and move to an assisted living community sooner than later.
4 reasons not to wait to move to assisted living
#1: Help is always on hand
The effects of aging can creep up until suddenly you realize you can no longer manage everyday activities without help. It may begin with needing help with mobility and transportation, then bathing becomes unsafe, dressing is a struggle, and eventually cooking, cleaning and laundry are more than you can handle alone. When daily self-care tasks or household chores become too difficult to maintain, it’s a sign that you may have a safer, greater – and more independent quality of life in a community setting.
Top assisted living communities like The Birches prioritize care but with an emphasis on independence and self-fulfillment. With care managed seamlessly by trained team members, you can enjoy the peace of mind and freedom of living in a home that is clean, private and accessible with additional benefits like onsite therapies, medical specialists, and hands-on help with technology.
At The Birches we go a step further by being the only certified Montessori Inspired Lifestyle in Illinois, which emphasizes respect and compassion while enabling our members to make their own choices and live life on their terms. For a more in-depth look, our blog, “Assisted Living Defined” is an excellent resource.
#2: Social opportunities
Socialization is more than just fun, it’s fundamental to a long, healthy and happy life but as friends pass away and getting out is harder, staying social can be a challenge. According to the mcpress.mayoclinic.org article, “A surprising key to healthy aging: Strong social connections,” the risks of social isolation include dementia, heart disease, stroke and even premature death. Rather than run these risks, seniors can enjoy plenty of socialization simply by moving to assisted living.
Among the many social benefits of assisted living are all the planned opportunities for you to socialize, make new friends and banish loneliness and isolation before they have an impact on your health. As noted in our blog, “Is assisted living the best option for your loved one?,” you can choose from a variety of options including classes, workshops and committees, as well as games, trips, events, and other activities that help make life more interesting, fun and fulfilling.
Download our “Navigating Assisted Living: Essential Insights for Families" guide!
#3: Excellent nutrition
Life has three primary requirements: air, water and nourishment. While the first two are readily available, nutrition can pose a bigger problem. You may struggle to get healthy foods, or to cook and clean up, or you just don’t enjoy eating alone, but when getting three nourishing meals every day becomes difficult, your health will suffer. Before that possibility arises, be proactive in your well-being and take a look at what the best communities offer.
At The Birches we tailor our menus to be tasty and nutritious but perhaps more importantly, to meet the whims and desires of our members! Our culinary services are second to none. Our executive chef works closely with the Culinary Dining Committee members to craft diverse meal choices that our members prefer - whether it’s a favorite from the past or something new. Meals are social events which make it easy for everyone to just relax and enjoy wonderful food in the company of friends.
#4: Cost effective
If you are among the many seniors who believe they will simply hire help when they need it, you may want to rethink that. According to the “2023 Genworth Cost of Care Survey,” the monthly costs of home maker services and in-home care versus the costs of assisted living might surprise you.
First, the national average monthly median cost of assisted living is $5,350, which includes a complete home with housekeeping, maintenance, meals, and other services and amenities.
On the other hand, the national hourly median cost of home maker services is $30.00 and a home health aide is $33.00, which respectively comes to $2,600 and $2,860 for 20 hours/month, $5,200 and $5,720 for 40 hours/month, and $21,840 and $24,024 for the same hours as assisted living. These costs, however, do not include the costs of food, home costs (i.e., mortgage, insurance, utilities, etc.), or other expenses like entertainment and transportation.
In addition, the ongoing national shortage of in-home service providers may make it difficult to find and keep reliable and affordable assistance when you need it, which adds to the stress of living alone.
To help make the right decision, download our “Just the Facts: Assisted Living” guide and contact us to schedule your personal tour.
