By Deborah Nguyen
While there may have been a time when assisted living facilities were basically a place to send an elderly relative when you simply couldn’t care for themselves any longer, that’s now a thing of the past. Assisted living can now provide access to loads of fun activities, an active social calendar and even opportunities to learn new things. In fact, more and more elderly people are opting for these kind of facilities for their golden years.
Assisted Living: A Brand New Life
While care homes are helpful for those who need a little bit more help or need access to regular medical attention in their older years, they also have excellent benefits for the elderly. Oftentimes older people who live on their own can feel isolated, or become stuck in a rut. Living in a facility such as Chateau Vestavia assisted living, can provide access to all sorts of fun activities, group outings and regular contact with others, making it ideal for any older person.
Social Access
Studies have shown that regular social activity can go a long way to helping to stave off memory loss and even Alzheimer’s disease. Being a part of an assisted living community allows a senior to have access to other peers, especially those who share the same interests. Retirees can join others for group meals, classes and outings to meet new neighbors. New residents will be making friends in no time.
Physical Activity
Keeping fit and physical into their later years can go a long way to keeping a retiree from aging before their time. A healthy weight and regular exercise can keep their heart healthy, as well as prevent the aches and pains that come along with getting older. Many facilities have gyms, pools and staff on site so residents can create their own exercise program. Staff can also give advise on losing weight and staying healthy.
Eating Right
As people age, they may be cooking for one for the very first time in years or they may just not want be bothered with making decent meals. This can be detrimental for their health, and an assisted home can help with that. Many offer group mealtimes, where diners can take in a balanced meal with friends. Apartment-style homes are often equipped with a kitchen, and nutritionists and helpers can offer advice on how to make great meals that will keep people in tip-top condition.
Group Trips
Just because a person is getting older doesn’t mean they can’t get out and about. While many seniors may not be able to drive anymore, assisted living facilities will offer social activities for groups such as trips to go sightseeing, visit national monuments or even to connect with nature. Getting out helps keep the mind stimulated, and prevents elderly people from having that “cooped up” feeling.
The image of the dank, boring care facility is truly one of the past. Today’s elderly clients are more active both physically and socially, and these homes are stepping up to the mark to provide services to match. Be sure to view any home you’re considering fully and ask any questions you might have. Chances are there’s a match for you.
Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/doughay/5696872679/
