Assisted living is increasingly used to help seniors stay healthy and well as they age. Unfortunately, not everyone understands what’s involved in this kind of living assistance. Instead of determining the facts, they rely on rumors, gossip, or outdated notions of senior care. For these reasons, there are numerous myths circulating about exactly what happens in an assisted living program. Awareness of these myths will help you make informed choices for yourself or your loved one in need of care.
At Buckner Parkway Place, our team believes that dispelling the myths about assisted living programs helps people decide if that level of care is right for them. If you are interested in learning about our assisted living program, reach out to our team today by calling 281.305.1846 or contacting us online.
5 Myths About Assisted Living Programs
1. They’re Nursing Homes
Assisted living programs and nursing homes both play valuable roles in senior care. However, they are not the same thing. Nursing homes provide extensive support for people who need a lot of help doing things such as:
- Eating
- Taking their prescribed medications
- Getting in and out of bed or a chair
- Taking a bath or shower
- Skilled, onsite nursing services are required to meet these and other resident needs.
Assisted living programs also provide support for such activities when appropriate. However, residents of these programs don’t have the same kinds of intensive needs as nursing home residents. Instead, they’re much more independent and active. In addition, while nursing homes provide shared or private rooms, assisted living homes typically provide private apartments.
2. They’re Outrageously Expensive
One of the most common myths about assisted living programs is that they are prohibitively expensive. However, in reality, it’s often no more costly than running the typical household. Bear in mind that assisted living programs cover the expense of a range of services, including:
- Food
- Housing
- Transportation
- Management of your medications
Compare the cost of these services to the expenses you would incur on your own. You may be surprised by the results.
3. They’re Not Fun
Some people think that they or their loved ones won’t enjoy assisted living. But, far more often than not, that’s not the case. Almost three-quarters of all seniors in assisted living programs report experiencing a higher quality of life.
What explains this high satisfaction level? For starters, many seniors enjoy the services and amenities provided by their programs. They also enjoy the freedom that comes with not worrying about providing these things on their own.
4. They’re Boring
When you picture assisted living, you may conjure images of bored residents idling away their days. Fears of this kind of scenario are common. However, generally speaking, they’re also unfounded. Well-designed assisted living programs offer their residents an extensive array of activity options. For example, recreational opportunities may include everything from exercise facilities to group outings. You may even have access to a library or educational services.
5. They’re Isolating
Some seniors fear that an assisted living program will increase their sense of loneliness and isolation. Friends and family may also share this fear. But rest assured, most seniors in assisted living find ample opportunity to connect and socialize. Much of this opportunity comes through organized activities. In addition, you’ll have plenty of time to make new friends in daily life. And of course, you’ll also be able to stay in touch with your loved ones.
Seek More Facts About Assisted Living for Seniors at Buckner Parkway Place
Are you searching for more facts about assisted living for seniors? Our experts at Buckner Parkway Place can provide all the information you need. We specialize in high-quality care for seniors from all walks of life. The program at non-profit Buckner Parkway Place features everything you’d want or expect for you or your loved one. Call us today at 281.305.1846 to learn more about its details or reach out to us through our online form.