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Healthy Life

Assisted Living Facilities Are Important: Here’s Why

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When deciding which assisted living facilities are suitable for your loved one, there are some essential factors to consider. Some factors include creating a home-like atmosphere, providing meals and personal care support, and offering transportation services.

Creating a “Home-Like Atmosphere”

Creating a home-like atmosphere is not new, but it can help nursing homes boost their bottom lines. In fact, research has shown that residents in assisted living facilities want to experience a home-like environment. 

The key to creating a more home-like environment is prioritizing your residents’ needs and preferences. This can be done by establishing zones of socialization that promote the integration of your residents’ socialization choices.

One example is the multipurpose room, which can combine multiple functions. Providing adequate lighting for activities in a multipurpose room is an excellent idea.

A dining area is an integral part of a home. Residents enjoy dining with friends and family. However, dining can be more than just a mealtime activity. They can also engage in activities to stimulate their senses. The Atlantic Coast city of Jacksonville is cosmopolitan. It’s Florida’s most populated city, with a population that’s close to 950,000 and 13.4% of whom are 65 or older. Jacksonville charges an average monthly cost of $4,660 on Jacksonville Florida assisted living, which is $660 more than the state median and $160 more than the national average for this kind of care.

Health visitor and a senior woman during home
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Providing Meals And Personal Care Support

Assisted living facilities provide meals and personal care support for older people who can’t live alone. They’re often a bridge between family and in-home help.

When choosing an assisted living facility, ask about staff qualifications. These include whether they’re qualified to perform tasks such as administering medication. You’ll also want to observe staff interactions and talk with residents.

The State Department of Health issues licenses to assisted living facilities. The size and types of units in facilities vary. Some provide single or shared accommodations. Others may require a specific amount of activities for their residents.

Assisted living residents may receive assistance with personal care tasks such as toileting, bathing, and dressing. These services may be included in the monthly rent.

Assisted living facilities are usually operated by private companies. Publicly funded sources, such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), can also help cover the cost of care.

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Helping Your Loved One Personalize Their Living Space

While many facilities come equipped with furniture and other amenities, ensuring your loved one is comfortable is also necessary. Having the right furniture and a few cherished mementos can make a huge difference.

To do this, ask your loved one what they like and create a list. For example, they may be interested in exercise programs and social activities. Making a list of their favorite things to do can help them figure out what to look forward to in their new home.

This list should include items that can be incorporated into their new home, such as heirlooms and family keepsakes. If your loved one can’t part with their prized possessions, offer to store them or rehome them with relatives.

Transportation Services

The transportation services available at assisted living facilities are crucial in maintaining seniors’ independence. These services can include on-demand rides to medical appointments or shopping. Many communities also arrange for trips to local stores and special events.

Getting around can be difficult for older adults with physical or mental disabilities. Having reliable and affordable transportation can help seniors continue to stay socially connected.

An experienced NEMT can help senior care facilities focus on resident care instead of managing transport. These professionals know the appropriate processes and have the right technology. Using a NEMT can save time and money and reduce overscheduling and late pickups.