Moving out of your home and into a senior living community is undoubtedly a big decision. But did you know that it could benefit not just your happiness but your health as well?
A 2023 study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that people with an average age of 89 lived longer the more they socialized. And those who socialized every day lived even longer than the others! One of the key benefits of senior living communities is that they provide lots of opportunities to spend time with others.
This is just one of the many advantages of senior communities that you should consider if you're undecided about making a move. Let's explore a few more together.
A study that looked at what seniors want out of life emphasized the importance of independence. Being as independent as possible helps us to feel free, gives us a sense of control, and retains our dignity. One of the benefits of senior housing is being able to maintain independence by staying in your own home but with a little extra support.
In an assisted living community, each resident has their own home with their own front door. You maintain independence to:
However, if you need a little help with some daily living activities, the staff are on hand 24/7 to help. This could include medication management, housekeeping, bathing, and dressing. But if you do not need support, you will able to continue living independently, caring for your own needs.
One of the senior living advantages not everyone is aware of is that you can personalize your home to your own taste. You can bring your own furniture, ornaments, and decorations and really make it home. Apartments come in a range of sizes and styles, from suites to two-bedroom apartments. They also have outdoor spaces for relaxing and enjoying some fresh air.
Your home will include:
You can even bring your pet with you! You'll feel at home in no time. Plus, you'll have the added peace of mind that comes from knowing help is on hand at all times of the day and night.
At senior living communities, the focus is on improving seniors' quality of life. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) encourages seniors to eat well, be physically active, and get involved in social activities to support cognitive function and general health.
At a senior living community, you can benefit from activities such as:
One of the key senior care benefits is that you get to enjoy these activities with others. You don't need to leave your home, making it easy to stay engaged and active.
Transitioning to a senior living community does not mean weakening your ties with your friends and family. In fact, socializing, whether in person or online, is very much encouraged. You can invite them over to see you or use the transportation services provided to head out and visit them.
If you have a two-bedroom apartment, you may even be able to invite friends and family to stay with you. So you can remain an integral part of your family and friend group while receiving a little extra support to remain independent.
Senior living communities do not offer physician care or have nursing staff on-site. However, you can benefit from the support of specially trained staff who will help you access the services you need.
One of the advantages of senior communities is that every resident has their own care plan. This strikes a balance between providing help and maintaining your independence. It also sets out needs such as:
Staff can schedule regular visits from health professionals to detect medical problems early and provide effective treatment. Additionally, you can benefit from home visits from therapeutic services, such as physical and occupational therapists.
Most of us rely on medication as we age, and it's crucial to take the correct dose at the right time. Senior care benefits include having trained staff on hand to administer medication. This can relieve pressure and help you benefit from consistent doses of medication.
Mobility support is another factor in improving seniors' quality of life. Senior living communities are designed to be easy and safe to move around in, with level access or elevators to get you where you need to be. Staff are also on hand with wheelchairs, mobility aids, or a helping hand as needed.
For many seniors, the thought of being alone when having a medical emergency is very frightening. However, one of the key benefits of senior housing is that staff are on hand 24 hours a day. Simply alert them, and they will call emergency services or transfer you to a local medical facility promptly so you can get the care you need.
Moving into a senior living community can be the start of an exciting new chapter in your life. You'll be freed of all the responsibilities and headaches that come with running your own home. Enjoy your home and garden without having to do the hard work!
Plus, one of the key benefits of senior living communities like Prairie Hills Tipton that many enjoy is having people on hand at all times. When you need a little extra support or just want to have a chat, there are others there to socialize with or lend a hand.
Why not pay us a visit and see the benefits for yourself? Fill out our online form for more information and to arrange a tour today!