Life has a way of coming around full circle. Take the relationship with your parents. When you were small, they took care of all of your needs and helped you become an independent, responsible adult. Inevitably, you have all aged, and you may now be finding yourself in the role of caregiver for parents who can no longer take complete care of themselves. Thousands of Americans are struggling with working, caring for young families, and trying to help their parents at the same time. Deciding on the best way to handle the situation for all involved can be a frustrating dilemma.
Assisted living has emerged as one of the most viable options in elder care, and it's no wonder. It combines the best of two worlds for seniors, allowing them freedom to live as they please while offering them meals and other care as it becomes necessary. For those who want to continue living the unrestricted life they have always known, it comes as a blessed alternative to nursing home care. Living in their own apartments among others of their same age group, participating in center-planned activities, and being able to come and go when they want to are pluses of this type of living.
For the children of seniors in assisted living facilities, it's a relief knowing that parents are being cared for while still being able to live happy, fulfilling lives. After all, old age is just a part of life, not an affliction that needs to be dealt with as such.
It is estimated that more than 20,000 assisted living facilities are operating in the United States, and more than a million people live in them. The trend continues to grow, especially as the population is aging. In many cases, assisted living can even accommodate those with Alzheimer's and dementia allowing them to live with dignity. Different levels of care make assisted living a pleasant choice for everyone, because they aren't forced to fit into a mold of life that nursing homes demand. They are only given those services which they require and then left to live their lives the way they choose.
You shouldn't get the idea that assisted living is the best option for every senior. Many prefer to remain in their own homes with the aid of a caregiver. A lady I know tried assisted living but decided it wasn't for her, because costs for such things as meals she didn't eat kept escalating. She still wanted to cook for herself and keep her own home, so she rented an apartment and, at 89, is still living there comfortably while employing a lady who comes in every two weeks to help her with housework and shopping.
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