With modern senior care, the elderly now have more options than ever, and that includes assisted living facilities. However, not everyone is open to leaving their family home to settle down somewhere unfamiliar. They may have a few questions about the arrangement, so below are answers to a few of these.

A Guide on Assisted Living Facilities

What does assisted living mean?

As the name suggests, assisted living is a care arrangement that maintains a senior’s independence in a home-like community. Residents live in private apartments, with caregivers on standby to give support whenever necessary. Seniors can receive help with tasks, such as bathing, grooming, and medication monitoring, according to their needs and preferences.

Who can live in an assisted living facility?

Seniors who value their independence and mobility but need occasional assistance are the perfect candidates for assisted living. It is also an excellent option for those who wish to socialize, do not require complex medical attention, or suffer from momentary memory lapses that put their safety at risk.

Will there be activities as well?

Most assisted living facilities recognize that seniors should remain active and engaged, and they offer many recreational activities to residents. They often have programs that cater to different interests, such as cooking, gardening, reading, and religious services. There are also days for excursions and trips for intergenerational programs with schools. With many activities to participate in, residents can decide on how they’ll spend the day.

What services do the facilities offer?

Assisted living facilities may differ in their service offerings, but most of them provide healthy meals, timely medication reminders, personal care assistance, laundry, and housekeeping. Some facilities also include transportation, allowing seniors to go out whenever possible. When choosing a facility, ask if they have healthcare professionals on-call for medical emergencies.

Can residents accept visitors?

In assisted living facilities, visitors are always welcome. They encourage family members to drop by and spend time with the resident—overnight stays are possible, too, as long as the noise is manageable. Residents should treat the apartments as their own, which means they can decorate and invite anyone in as if it’s their home. Some facilities also allow residents to bring pets.

Learn more about the benefits of these institutions when you visit Hillcrest Assisted Living in Columbia, MO. For over three decades, they’ve been one of the most trusted retirement homes in the area, allowing elderly residents to maintain their independence while receiving excellent care. Call (573) 696-3201 to know your options on senior assisted living. Visit the website to learn more about their services.