The Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA) reports that more than 20 percent of the population will be age 65 and older by 2030. As a result, more older adults will be moving to an Indiana senior living community.
While many seniors fear the idea of moving into an independent or assisted living community, there are a surprising number of benefits associated with the transition.
Here are ten ways senior living communities improve the lives of older adults in the Hoosier state.
Exploring the Benefits of Senior Living Communities
- Socialization
Social isolation leads to detrimental health consequences including depression and disease. When seniors move into an assisted living community, they are encouraged to participate in planned social activities that relate to their favorite hobbies and interests. Life enrichment is a key to successful aging.
- Physical Activity
Living in a senior community presents older adults with opportunities to engage in fitness classes like Zumba and Chair yoga. The best part is these activities are a short walk down to the activity center. No transportation required!
These exercise opportunities are great options for older adults in Indiana who may not be able to get outside during the icy, winter months.
- Healthy Diet
Adult children have peace of mind knowing their aging parent is eating a well-balanced diet while living in a senior community. Residents enjoy restaurant-style dining with an opportunity to socialize with friends at each meal.
- Independence
As we age, the fear of losing our independence looms large. But moving to a senior living community is one of the best ways for an older adult to receive the support they need to maintain their independence. Individual apartments or suites in a senior living community allow seniors to live independently knowing assistance is nearby if needed.
- Safety
There are many safety benefits to consider when thinking about moving into a senior living community. They range from personal security to health management support. An attentive staff ensures older adults are healthy and mobile while giving family members peace of mind that their loved one is safe.
- Transportation
A significant factor for maintaining independence is transportation. Most senior living communities provide transportation to and from errands, appointments and shopping centers. Transportation services also take stress off of family caregivers who may be juggling a full-time career and family of their own with the needs of an aging parent.
- Improve Caregivers’ Health
Adult children can hand over some of their responsibilities to the staff at the senior living community including meal preparations, medication management and housekeeping. When their senior loved one moves into an independent or assisted living community, the family caregiver often feels less stressed and weary. It allows them to regain their own health and to more fully enjoy the time they spend with their loved one.
- Health Management
Senior living communities offer a variety of wellness programs in-house. From fall prevention programs to weight monitoring and medication management, these services help residents stay active longer.
- Memory Care
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than five million Americans lived with dementia in 2015. If your aging loved one is affected by the disease, a memory care community may be the ideal solution. These communities provide the necessary stimulation, nutrition and security for older adults with cognitive loss.
- Personal Care
As we age, it’s harder to pay proper attention to our personal hygiene. The staff at a senior living community can provide personal care for older adults in the comfort of their rooms. These communities also offer in-house beauty salon services on a weekly basis.
At first glance, encouraging a loved one into a senior living community might feel frightening. But the big move will likely turn out to be the best move to help them to live a longer and healthier life.