Older adults looking to move into a senior living community often feel like they’re losing some aspects of their independence. However, communities for senior living often offer a balance between self-sufficiency and support, allowing residents to maintain their freedom while providing a safe and engaging environment. As Independence Day approaches, we reflect on what independence means. For the older adults we serve in the senior care space, independence is ever-changing but possible with appropriate support. And that is what senior living communities provide, which is priceless.
Independence can look different and be unique to every aging adult. FamilyAssets published an article defining independent living, referring to those who are motivated to stay active and wish to do so in a secure environment. Assisted living communities can support residents’ independence by providing safety, support, and a sense of community. This allows their residents to focus on their personal hobbies and interests that contribute to their overall independence.
It is common for seniors to feel uneasy about doing personal care tasks or activities of daily living alone if they feel they are not living within a secure environment. Aging adults can get the help they need with only the daily living activities they want help with and continue to do other activities they feel they can do on their own. This provides them with the ability to make decisions and encourages their independence. The FamilyAssets published article, “Signs It Might be Time for Assisted Living,” can help a family determine what daily activities a loved one may need support with and how assisted living communities can help provide a fulfilling life. By getting the help a senior needs and wants, they are able to continue living safely with as much independence as possible.
Encourage residents to keep their independence in your community
Senior living communities can take several steps to promote a senior’s independence while providing a safe and secure environment.
- Social and recreational activities – Group outings, social clubs, hobby groups, fitness classes
- Access and transportation to nearby amenities – Access to nearby parks, restaurants, medical facilities, beauty salons, etc.
- Maintenance-free living – Providing free maintenance and upkeep services
- Senior-friendly accommodations – Providing a living space that accommodates accessibility and provides safety measures
- Wellness and healthcare support – Providing access to wellness and healthcare services on-site
- Activities of daily living support – Offer support on daily living activities like bathing or showering, dressing, getting in and out of bed or a chair, walking, using the bathroom, cooking, eating, etc.
This Independence Day, we want to thank all senior living communities for providing support to your residents that create opportunities to live maintenance-free lives full of independent choices for them to enjoy their time how they want to and positively impact their well-being and overall quality of life.
What do you offer your residents to help them maintain their independence?
