When is it the time to move from Independent to Assisted Living
abuwacilhassan
December 28, 2024
When Is It Time for Assisted Living?
To determine the right timing for a move to assisted living, it helps to understand the difference between independent living and assisted living.
Independent living is “designed for older adults who are generally able to live independently but want the convenience and social opportunities of a community setting,” explains Tina R. Sadarangani, a board-certified primary care nurse practitioner and assistant professor at NYU who specializes in the care of older adults.
They are often built as stand-alone homes in a neighborhood and are usually limited to people age 55 or older. They tend to offer social events, exercise classes, group travel options and other activities that foster mental and physical engagement and enhance quality of life as people age.
Assisted living, on the other hand, is designed for older adults who need help with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, medication management and meal preparation, but who do not require the intensive medical care provided in a nursing home, Sadarangani says.
Residents typically live in a private apartment or a shared room, and meals are usually served in a communal dining room where residents can socialize. The communities tend to offer additional amenities, such as social events, fitness activities and more, depending on their location and the clientele they serve.
Family members, caregivers or friends are often the first to spot warning signs that independent living may not be the optimal situation. Signs that it may be time to move include:
- Worsening medical conditions, with an increased number of falls and overall increased frailty
- Difficulty managing domestic finances or other money problems
- Difficulty keeping the house clean or maintaining personal hygiene
- Depression or social isolation
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