Are you looking at assisted living facilities for a parent or other family member? The transition to assisted living is often clouded by the common myths and misconceptions surrounding these communities. Learn more about these myths and why they simply aren’t true.
Myth: There’s No Independence
One of the most pervasive myths about assisted living facilities is that residents have no independence or forfeit the ability to do things themselves. While assisted living is designed to aid residents with their daily functions and medical needs, they can still maintain a relatively high level of independence.
Residents of assisted living facilities typically have their own living spaces and the freedom to do what they want, when they want, and only receive assistance for the tasks they need a little help with.
Myth: It’s Too Expensive
Another common myth that can take assisted living off the table for those who need it most centers around the fear of breaking the bank — many people believe that assisted living facilities are too expensive for them to move their loved ones into.
While there are certainly pricier communities, many assisted living facilities in Tallahassee, Florida, are quite affordable. There are also helpful resources that can offer financial aid if you’re having trouble getting your loved ones into assisted living.
Myth: Residents Are Isolated
Some people are worried about placing their loved ones in assisted living due to worries about loneliness or isolation. But the idea that these facilities are desolate places where residents are confined to their rooms all day is simply untrue.
The reality is that residents in assisted living have the opportunity to spend time with fellow residents and staff members every day. In fact, these communities can be great places to make new friends.
Myth: It Worsens Cognitive Decline
Many older adults transition to assisted living because they struggle with cognitive decline. Naturally, their loved ones might be concerned that their condition could worsen if they enter assisted living since they wouldn’t be performing daily tasks on their own.
Despite this belief, the assistance and stimulation these facilities afford generally enables residents with Alzheimer’s or dementia to lead a better quality of life than they could on their own.
Myth: There’s Nothing to Do
If you’re concerned that your loved one will have nothing to do in assisted living, you’re not alone. This is one of the most harmful myths surrounding assisted living facilities, and it’s far from reality.
Assisted living communities provide residents with many opportunities to engage in various recreational activities, including arts and crafts, hobby groups, exercise classes, movie nights, and more.
Myth: It Promotes Illness
Assisted living facilities are often thought of as places full of people who are severely ill or dying. In reality, patients who are especially ill or close to death are often in hospice care. Assisted living communities are simply for older adults who need help with their daily needs due to physical impairment or cognitive slowdown.
Myth: The Care Is Inadequate
One of the ugliest misconceptions about assisted living is that the standard of care for residents is subpar. While there are heartbreaking stories concerning certain facilities, most assisted living communities provide excellent care to their residents.
The staff at these facilities are all highly trained professionals who go above and beyond to assist residents with their medical needs, day-to-day tasks, and basic hygiene. What’s more, many caregivers form genuine, caring relationships with the residents they help look after.
Experiencing Assisted Living Facilities in Tallahassee, Florida
If you or a loved one are considering assisted living, it’s important to remember that you’ll likely encounter many inaccurate myths and misconceptions about what senior living communities are like. To get the truth for yourself, take the time to explore your options for assisted or independent living in Tallahassee.
