bigstock portrait of mid age couple and 48853760 2Yes, a lot of people immediately say they would prefer to remain at home if given the choice as they get older. This is commonly referred to as ‘aging in place,’ but it’s not always the best alternative. When an elderly person is living alone -trying to recover from a medical emergency or injuries sustained in an accident, or may simply dealing with the natural process of aging, having lost muscle mass and strength and the ability to take care of themselves in a safe and healthy manner- they will likely start feeling isolated and alone. Getting the right support and care from family and friends is not always available, but assisted living is.

Even if family is available, is that enough?

One of the main reasons people prefer to age in place (or remain home) is because they are surrounded by comfortable things. Things of familiarity, furniture, the layout of their house, pictures and other tokens of a life well lived.

The idea of moving into a small apartment style room and being surrounded by dozens or possibly even a hundred or more other seniors in a particular facility is not immediately appealing to some. However, there are tremendous benefits that assisted living offers seniors that they don’t get at home.

A quality assisted living facility will offer companionship.

In most cases, seniors who choose assisted living, even reluctantly at first, begin making friends and possibly reconnecting with old friends they hadn’t seen in a long time. They meet people who share common interests. They participate in various activities, go on outdoor excursions when available, and even enjoy similar types of entertainment.

Human beings are social creatures and when surrounded by others their own age, facing many of the same challenges, it can embolden and emotionally strengthen those seniors who choose assisted living over other care options.

Qualified and experienced staff should be available.

At a good, respectable assisted living facility, not only will the staff members have experience supporting elderly and even somewhat disabled residents, they will also be accessible. Even if an aging resident needs help going to the bathroom in the middle of the night for some reason or another, they will likely be able to receive that support.

It’s important to realize that assisted living is not the same as nursing home care and those elderly men and women who require significant direct medical attention around-the-clock will most likely be better suited for the latter option. For everyone else, though, assisted living can be far more enjoyable, comfortable, and safe than living at home alone, regardless of how many family and friends are willing and able to help at first.

For more information about assisted living in San Antonio, TX, contact Pipestone Place Assisted Living or to take a tour, call today (210) 718-0211.

I enjoy working, but when I’m not working, I love spending time with my family and the coolest kid, my son.We visit the zoo and ride the train often. We play games and just have fabulous fun.I enjoy reading every chance I get.My favorite pie is pumpkin pie.
Samuel Vesa
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