Friday, July 10, 2009

How Does Assisted Living Work







What is assisted living?








Assisted living is a form of special-needs caring that is similar to a nursing home, but usually affords the person receiving care more independence and freedom. Similar to nursing homes, assisted-living facilities largely cater to older residents but may also provide housing to younger people with special physical needs and disabilities. For instance, Accessible Space Incorporated is a company which specializes in providing assisted living and housing solutions both for the elderly and for people with special accessibility problems, especially those in wheelchairs.


Assisted living in action


Those who live in assisted-living facilities typically have their own private apartments; they are not monitored at all times, yet staff members periodically visit to assist the person the daily tasks or provide companionship. Meals are usually provided at communal dining halls, which also increase human interaction. This is especially beneficial since those with special needs and disabilities may feel self-conscious about going out into public, but can commiserate more easily with other people that have similar problems. Assisted-living homes are also often constructed in order to make the lives of disabled people more independent, such as making wheelchair-accessible showers, lower countertops and tables, and handrails.


Benefits of assisted living


Assisted living is a good option for those who are generally self-sufficient but have a few special needs that do not pose an imminent risk to themselves or others. It allows people to maintain more of their independent lifestyle, while giving them the assistance they need. Those who are very frail or mentally confused are better off at a nursing home, where they can receive around-the-clock assistance. Similar to nursing homes, assisted-living facilities often have a busy schedule of events that allow for constant socialization, which is important to maintain happiness and mental acuity.

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