When helping older adults find a home here at The Lodge at Stephens Lake, we often hear some ideas about assisted living that are either outdated or just plain wrong. You may even be thinking some of these things as you begin your search for assisted living for yourself or your older loved one.
Rest assured that today’s senior living communities are more like resort destinations than the “old folks’ homes” they once were. Here are some of the misconceptions we hear, and the truth behind them.
10 common misconceptions about assisted living communities
#1: “Assisted living is just a fancy new name for nursing homes.”
The term nursing home once meant any facility where elderly people lived and received nursing care. They offered very few services and amenities beyond assistance with daily activities and meals.
Today, assisted living communities not only provide help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management, but residents enjoy a wide range of activities, transportation, housekeeping, and laundry service. Plus, the care staff help residents maintain a high level of independence.
#2: “I won’t have any privacy.”
Residents in assisted living communities usually have their own private apartments or suites with locks on their doors. Care is provided discreetly – often in the privacy of the resident’s apartment, and the dignity of the residents is respected.
#3: “I’ll be giving up my independence.”
Assisted living communities actually enhance resident independence by removing the burdens of home maintenance, cooking, and personal care. Residents can focus on enjoying life, socializing, and pursuing interests. Participation in the community is encouraged, but residents can partake in as much or as little as they choose.
#4: “There’ll be nothing to do all day.”
Looking back more than several decades at nursing homes, residents would spend a large percentage of their days in front of a TV in a community room. Assisted living communities today couldn’t be more different. You’ll discover packed activities calendars that cater to a wide variety of interests. Live music, exercise classes, art instruction, hobby groups, and trips to shopping and area attractions are just a sampling of what’s on the calendar each week.
#5: “The food won’t be good – it’ll be like hospital food.”
While proper nutrition is essential to the well-being of older adults, assisted living communities offer delicious chef-prepared meals, diverse menu options, and accommodations for dietary preferences and needs. And, it’s served in a fine restaurant-style dining room. Private dining rooms are available for special occasions and family visits.
#6: “They’re filled with extremely old and sick people.”
The image of communities filled with nothing but frail, 100+ year-old residents is just not accurate. Many residents move to assisted living communities in their 70s or early 80s while they’re still active but are in need a little help in their daily lives. An early transition to an assisted living community can actually improve quality of life and help avoid isolation and lower the risk of injury at home.
#7: “It’ll be too expensive.”
While assisted living may seem costly, it actually consolidates expenses like housing, meals, utilities, care, and transportation into one predictable monthly fee. Many families find it comparable to or more affordable than paying for these services separately at home, especially when factoring in the high costs of private caregivers and home modifications.
#8: “I won’t see my friends anymore.”
Residents typically have full freedom to entertain guests including family, church and other group acquaintances, and former neighbors. Plus, leaving for trips and vacations is easy and worry-free because the staff is there to look after things in your absence.
#9: “My family will stop visiting me.”
The concern here is that, once mom or dad has moved out of the family home, the adult children and grandchildren will no longer visit like they used to. In assisted living communities, families are encouraged to visit their loved ones, join them in activities, attend events, and stay actively involved in their loved one’s life. Assisted living can also actually strengthen family relationships by drastically reducing caregiver stress.
#10: “It’s going to look dark, depressing, and outdated inside.”
The image of assisted living communities having an institutional medical environment feel is just not accurate. Senior living communities are designed to be pleasant, home-like environments that are appealing residents and families alike. Residents are free to furnish and decorate their apartments as they like. Senior living communities truly are places that residents can feel proud to live in.
Assisted living in Jasper, GA
Assisted living communities offer older adults a lifestyle of dignity, safety, and independence. Through compassionate support with activities of daily living, these communities ensure that residents don’t just survive, but truly thrive.
If you or a loved one is beginning to need help with bathing, dressing, or other daily tasks, exploring assisted living may be a positive next step. It’s not just about care—it’s about quality of life.
If you’re exploring your options for assisted living in Jasper, GA, consider The Lodge at Stephens Lake’s assisted living community. Download our free guide, Just the Facts: A Guide to Assisted Living, to learn more. Then contact us to schedule your personalized tour.