Caring for someone with a disability is a responsibility for many people. But some people with disabilities prefer to live alone independently, while others need special care because of existing medical conditions. Living arrangements may differ depending on the individual’s age, needs, preferences, and other factors.
This article will answer one of the most common questions about care and living arrangements for people with disabilities: ‘Is assisted living a good option?’ Read on below to find out.
Short Answer: Yes. Assisted living is a good option for people with disabilities. Many of them feel grateful and happy staying in specialised residential care areas.
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What Is Assisted Living?
An assisted living facility comprises a community of seniors or people with disabilities. Residents need assistance in preparing meals, housekeeping, taking medications, personal grooming, mobility, and other routine activities. This residential care living arrangement is for people who need everyday assistance but not as much as a nursing home facility provides.
Many assisted living facilities are disability service providers, which are well-equipped with the staff and equipment to provide services, including assistance with activities of daily living (ADL) and therapy services. A disability services provider works with people with disabilities and their support network to help meet their goals.
Top Reasons Assisted Living Is A Good Option
Below are the top reasons assisted living is a good option for people with disabilities.
A Home-Like Care Setting
Assisted living communities are suitable for people with disabilities because of their home-like care ambiance. Residents can stay independent in a comfortable environment and receive assistance with eating, dressing, etc. They can rent a room they prefer and only pay extra for their preferred services or care level.
Shared common areas in assisted living communities include an entertainment room, walking trails, a garden, a library, and a swimming pool. The amenities differ from one community to another. Some facilities have luxury amenities, like bars, spas, and Jacuzzi or hot tubs.
Round-The-Clock Monitoring
Assisted living communities usually range between 25 and 125 residents. Because of this huge number, they have staff members who work in shifts to cater to residents’ needs for 24 hours.
Medical care professionals are available to monitor sick residents. They provide round-the-clock and on-demand assistance, especially when people with mobility or visual problems need help at night. Aside from caregivers, nurses, and therapists, assisted living facilities also have non-medical helpers, such as cleaners, lay ministers, and drivers to provide holistic services to residents.
Safe And Secure Living Environment
Assisting living communities are safe and secure for people with mobility problems, hearing impairment, and other disabilities. Most communities have security guards and smart security systems to ensure unauthorised people can’t enter the premises.
Assisted living communities also provide assistive devices to residents and install safety equipment and fixtures. Examples include wheelchairs, canes, grab bars, bed railings, and other safety features to avoid falls, slips, and other accidents.
People with disabilities and their families can gain peace of mind, knowing they are safe and secure. They can communicate with one another through various modes of communication whenever they desire to do so. Such security and flexibility provide residents with a sense of freedom, allowing them to enjoy staying in specialised residential communities.
A Wide Array Of Activities And Therapies
People with sensory impairments and other disabilities have unique emotional, mental, and spiritual needs. Assisted living communities provide training, social activities, counselling, and other therapeutic activities to fulfill these needs.
Residents learn how to socialise. New ones receive a warm welcome from staff members and fellow residents. All residents are free to engage in any passion or hobby, like meditation or painting, as long as it’s safe and with certain limitations to ensure life balance.
In addition, families of residents in assisted living facilities can visit during specified hours for bonding and celebrations of birthdays and other milestones.
Because people with disabilities usually receive government subsidies and support, they can arrange with disability care providers to determine the services they can obtain from sponsored funding.
Before admission, disability service providers explain their options in an easy-to-understand manner. They explain the inclusive therapies and activities and any extra costs if residents need specialised services.
Conclusion
Assisted living can be an excellent option for many people with disabilities because of the holistic services this living arrangement and care option can provide. They receive maximum care to stay independent, enjoying their lives to the fullest.
If you or a family member is contemplating staying in an assisted living community, contact a disability service provider to get the assistance and information you need.
