Welcome back to our blog page for our Manor Lake BridgeMill assisted living and our Manor Lake BridgeMill memory care community. We often choose our blog topics based upon frequently asked questions regarding the services offered here at Manor Lake. Questions like “What exactly is assisted living” and “How do I know when assisted living is now in my mom’s best interest”?
Well, guess what? Many of us here on staff are children of aging parents just like you. We ask ourselves the exact same questions. A major difference between them and you, however, is we get to witness first-hand the amazingly positive effects of assisted living. And we get to personally here our family members testify why they are so grateful for making the hard decisions that have elevated the health and wellness of their loved one.
So, let’s get to some of the basics that hopefully you will find both informative and actionable.
Defining “Assisted Living” and Its Principles
Assisted living, a term often associated with senior care, refers to a residential option designed for individuals who require assistance with daily activities but do not need the extensive medical care provided in a nursing home. This form of care, commonly referred to as “assist live”, combines personal care services, supervision, and in some cases, healthcare, in a way that promotes maximum independence for residents.
Role of Assisted Living in the Spectrum of Long-Term Care Options
Assisted living communities like ours play a pivotal role in the long-term care spectrum. They offer a middle ground between independent living, where seniors live autonomously with minimal assistance, and nursing homes (nurse home), which are designed for those requiring continuous skilled nursing care (skilled nurse care). Assisted living thus caters to those who fall in between these two extremes, offering a balance of support and autonomy.
Differences Between Assisted Living, Nursing Homes, and Independent Living
The primary difference lies in the level of care and support provided. Independent living is geared towards seniors who are largely self-sufficient but enjoy community living. Nursing homes, conversely, are for those who need 24-hour medical attention and assistance. Assisted living, meanwhile, is tailored for individuals who need help with activities of daily living like bathing, dressing, or medication management but do not require intensive medical supervision.
The Need for Assisted Living Scenarios When Assisted Living Becomes a Necessity
Assisted living becomes a viable option when the tasks of daily life become challenging, and the safety and well-being of the individual can no longer be assured at home. This need may arise due to age-related conditions, mobility issues, or cognitive impairment.
Understanding the Signs That a Loved One May Need Assisted Care
Recognizing these needs early is vital. Warning signs include difficulties in managing activities of daily living, noticeable decline in hygiene, unexplained injuries, or forgetfulness in taking medication. These indicators suggest that an assisted living community could provide the necessary support and care.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Community
You simply need to visit all the communities you might consider entrusting your loved one to. We know that you will (and should) have a long list of questions. Often, However, decisions become surprisingly easy. Your eyes, ears, nose, and heart will largely be your guide when touring our Manor Lake BridgeMill assisted living community in Canton, GA. Allow us the privilege to share the entirety of our community with you via guided tour. Our experience is that most of your questions will be answered that very day.