About one million U.S. older citizens live in senior communities, and research shows that the number is likely to double by 2030. Americans are living longer, and most want to stay independent for as long as possible. However, even the most robust seniors sometimes need help with daily living, so many move to senior communities that meet their needs.
For instance, there are communities offering both assisted and independent living arrangements. The assisted option provides just the amount of help residents need to maintain as much independence as possible. Seniors often move from their homes to the communities, but some also transfer from rehabilitation communities or hospitals. The communities have the resources to provide medical care and rehabilitation services.
Nursing Homes Are Not Always the Answer for Seniors
At one time, an older person who needed ongoing medical care or even general daily assistance would move to a nursing home or extended-care community. Today, California seniors are just as likely to choose communities such as Cypress Court Senior Living.
While extended care communities offer complete management for all patients’ medical needs, senior communities provide just what residents need to ensure they retain as much dignity and self-sufficiency as possible. Extended care communities also offer 24/7 nursing staff. This may not be necessary for all senior residents. Assisted and independent living communities carefully monitor all residents’ well-being and ensure they have the care they need.
Assisted Vs. Independent Living Arrangements
Seniors who move to an assisted living community that also provides independent living are generally in overall good health and generally self-reliant. Those who opt for independent living arrangements essentially lead the same lives they would in any community, but they have help and security if needed. Those who opt for more supportive arrangements are typically independent but need help in certain areas.
As a general rule, seniors could benefit from assistance if they:
- Have had at least one fall
- Sometimes appear hungry or are not getting adequate nutrition
- Have difficulty preparing meals
- Find it difficult to get around the house safely
- Need help with daily living needs like dressing, bathing, or medication management
- Are isolated or unsafe enough to worry family members
Senior Communities Can Help with Everyday Needs
Many seniors move to assisted living communities to get help with ADLs (Activities of Daily Living). They can choose as much or as little help as they want. For example, some residents monitor their own medication but want help in areas like mobility or dressing.
Per senior living resource Where You Live Matters, research shows that of the seniors who need assistance with ADLs:
- 64% Require help bathing
- 57% Need assistance walking
- 48% Cannot dress without help
- 40% Need help with toileting
- 29% Require help transferring to their bed
- 19% Cannot eat without help
A Full Staff Meets Residents’ Daily and Medical Needs
Although California senior communities often look like other pleasant, well-maintained communities, they are designed for residents’ health, safety, and security. Communities include options such as emergency call buttons and accessibility features, while caregivers and other staff ensure seniors’ well-being.
In addition to medication management and help with medical needs, seniors can arrange for various types of therapy. If they are recovering from surgeries or injuries, medical personnel monitor their care. Unlike hospitals and nursing homes, senior communities focus on whole-person well-being. They boost seniors’ morale, engage them in activities, and ensure they are not isolated.
Residents Enjoy a Relaxed Lifestyle
Seniors who choose a supportive lifestyle option enjoy relaxed days that are free from worries about everyday tasks. Per Senior Advisor, communities relieve residents of chores such as housekeeping, laundry, and outdoor maintenance.
Residents do not have to worry about making meals, either. Communities typically include chefs who create exciting and nutritious menus for residents. They also accommodate individual dietary needs. Seniors may join friends and even family in dining rooms where they can socialize while enjoying their meals.
Communities Offer a Range of Amenities
Because overall well-being involves more than just medical care, senior communities include amenities that foster residents’ overall health. For example, communities generally include pools, a fitness center, and landscaped areas where seniors can get exercise and fresh air.
Professionals coordinate recreational events designed to keep residents engaged and active. Many communities offer enriching experiences like entertainment, classes, and off-site events. Residents can make new social connections with others who share their interests. Communities have common areas that are ideal for visiting, but seniors can be as private as they want and spend time alone when they feel like it.
Cypress Court Senior Living is a California assisted- and independent living community that offers residents exceptional benefits. We view wellness as part of everything we do and offer residents a menu of options designed to ensure each person has the best possible health and wellness balance.
