Top Benefits of Assisted Living for Aging Parents
According to his biography, Leonard Woolf, the husband of Virginia Woolf, believed in “the happiness which begins at 70 and grows steadily greater.” But if you’re watching your parent’s health and ability decline as they get older, you may not share his optimism. Quality of life can suffer when someone begins to struggle to take care of themselves or their home. That’s where assisted living can help. Often, a little extra support is all that’s needed to help older adults live rewarding — and happy — lives. Here are some of the benefits of assisted living:
Regained Independence
It may seem contradictory, but the amenities and services available in an assisted living community can give your parent renewed independence. A helping hand with self-care tasks like dressing or managing their medications can set up your mom or dad to confidently enjoy the rest of their day. Scheduled transportation ensures your parent can make forays into the local community to enjoy shopping, entertainment and cultural events. On-site amenities like a library, bank and hair salon give them convenient access to the services they need to feel more self-reliant.
A Comfortable Residence
It’s a common misconception that assisted living communities have a clinical, hospital-like atmosphere. In reality, most communities strive to create a comfortable, homelike setting, and many are quite luxurious. Residents have their own private oasis plus common indoor gathering spaces and outdoor courtyards, so your parent can delight in both comfort and privacy, but without the hassles of upkeep, since housekeeping, maintenance and groundskeeping are provided. And, because assisted living communities are designed with the needs of older adults in mind, most include aging-friendly features like large roll-in showers.
Healthy Lifestyle
Nourishing foods and regular exercise are foundations of well-being, but struggling with daily tasks can limit your parent’s ability to provide healthy meals for themselves or to exercise. Assisted living makes a healthy lifestyle effortless. Delicious meals and a variety of restaurant-style dining venues ensure that your parent is eating well. With an on-campus fitness center, pool, and numerous classes, your mom or dad can easily participate in the physical activities that support their overall wellness.
Active Engagement
Seniors can become more isolated as they get older, which can have a harmful impact on their mental and physical well-being. In assisted living communities, an enriching variety of social events and activities — from bocce ball to book discussion groups — offer your parent the chance to make new friends and pursue the interests that give them a feeling of purpose and meaning.
Safety and Peace of Mind
It’s natural to worry about your parent’s safety as they get older. The 24/7 support available in an assisted living community can help put many of your concerns to rest. Some communities also offer higher levels of care on the same campus, so if your parent ever needs short-term rehabilitation or long-term skilled nursing, they won’t have to leave the community where they’ve grown comfortable.
Exceptional Assisted Living at Sagewood
If you and your parent are exploring the idea of assisted living, consider visiting Desert Willow, the assisted living neighborhood at Sagewood. We think you’ll both be drawn to the beautifully appointed spaces, the cheerful and caring staff, and the resort-inspired amenities. With an array of activities, chef-prepared meals, extra help when required — and the many other benefits of assisted living — Sagewood can provide the lift your parent needs to flourish as they get older. Contact us to find out more or to schedule a visit.