Assisted Living Facilities Focus on Quality of Life Over Just Basic Care

Assisted living facilities are recognizing families' need to find homes for their loved ones that emphasize quality of life over simple basic care; as such, they are offering a wider range of amenities than ever before

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AssistedLivingFacilities.net

Feb 17, 2011, 07:55 ET

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Feb. 17, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Families looking for an assisted living facility are often placing a greater emphasis on quality of life rather than simply basic care. In turn, assisted living facilities are now offering more choice and a wide range of amenities to help residents enjoy their golden years.

Some basic assisted living facilities offer individual 24-hour emergency call systems, access to health care and medical services that are customized to meet the specific needs of their residents. They receive three meals a day, housekeeping, laundry and daily activity and hygiene assistance. Many others also offer transportation and exercise and wellness programs.

Families looking for a retirement community will be sure to find all these basic services included in most choices. However, the key to finding the home that will make their loved one truly happy depends on what additional amenities are offered that fit the specific interests and activities that they enjoy.

For seniors that enjoy socializing, families will want to focus on the common areas in the assisted living facilities and consider how comfortable their loved ones will be in each setting. Some have areas that are designed to look like upscale restaurants and others with small cafe settings. Others include fitness centers, game rooms, libraries and parlors.

Some senior communities offer a wide variety of activities and entertainment choices for their residents. Family members should look for a well-balanced activities calendar that includes items that interest their loved ones. These can include bingo, puzzles and trivia, gardening groups, book clubs, and outings to theaters, museums and other places. Many also offer wellness and physical fitness programs that can include water aerobics, yoga and chair exercises.

Nursing homes should have a variety of entertainment choices available, regardless of the activity level of the senior. They will also offer assistance with activities so all can enjoy participating. Assisted living facilities can also offer care for residents who are living with dementia or Alzheimer's. These specialized programs often include innovative therapies to improve quality of life.

About AssistedLivingFacilities.net:

AssistedLivingFacilities.net provides a free service to people looking for assisted living facilities for their loved ones. You can share your needs, compare local facilities, and find the right affordable retirement home. With this service, you are sure to find an active and vibrant community at a comfortable price. To learn more about assisted living facilities, visit the website.