7 Common Myths About Assisted Living Debunked

When planning your parents’ retirement, it’s natural for both you and them to feel anxious and uncertain. That’s why it’s important to make an informed choice about which living facility can assist them with their daily chores yet grant independent living. If your loved one needs a little help with daily activities, assisted living is a good option. Unfortunately, the internet is full of inaccurate, misleading or outdated information about what it actually means to move into a retirement home. 

Top 7 Common Assisted Living Myths Busted

For many seniors, change triggers feelings of loss of control and freedom. So, moving to a senior living community may feel like they’re giving up on their freedom and independence. What’s more, prevalent myths about assisted living make things even more difficult for seniors. That’s why it’s time to bring out the facts.

• MYTH 1: Assisted living is only for seniors who are sick or disabled.

Retirement homes are meant for all seniors, whether they are suffering from age-related illnesses like dementia or osteoporosis, or simply want to live an easier life. 
Although most residents range in age from their mid-50s through their 90s, they hardly meet the stereotype of the sick and disabled elderly. In fact, many are active and energetic, with plenty of zest for life. With a range of lifestyle choices and personalized services, residents continue to enjoy their privacy, freedom and independence without the responsibility of maintaining their home.

• MYTH 2: Assisted living will make them lose their independence.

Privacy and independence are dear to everyone, and many seniors think that assisted living means sacrificing these. In reality, although residents are well taken care of, they’re not constantly supervised. In fact, they are encouraged and allowed to keep doing the things they love and are physically and mentally capable of doing.  From libraries and free internet access to fitness rooms and scheduled movie nights, there’s almost everything that can make the seniors feel as comfortable, healthy and independent as possible.

• MYTH 3: There’s no opportunity for pursuing hobbies and exercise.

The goal of most assisted living facilities is to help seniors live life to the fullest. Wellness and social programs, as well as hobbies, are essential for people of all ages to keep us entertained and occupied. Retirement homes offer a wide range of daily activities, from yoga classes and book clubs to cooking classes and game or movie nights. Some resort-style assisted living communities also include spas, pools, libraries, an arts & crafts room, and a workout centre. There’s also ample opportunity to learn something new, like pottery, crocheting or a new language. 

• Myth #4: Friends and family cannot visit.

Age brings with it loneliness, helplessness, selective memory, and anxiety. Living alone is one of the biggest risk factors for depression in seniors. The best assisted living homes take care of their residents’ emotional needs and reinforce positive feelings. They also help them maintain their privacy and independence, while providing many opportunities for socialization and development of life skills.
And friends and relatives are always welcome to stop by and chat over coffee or lunch. Moving into a retirement home doesn’t put an end to social life. In reality, many seniors choose to leave their home for assisted living facilities because they want a richer social life.

• MYTH #5: Assisted living is more expensive than home care.

You might be surprised to know that compared to the costs of homeownership and living expenses, assisted living is way more convenient and economical. Even if you’ve paid off your mortgage, homeownership is still expensive, what with the costs of housekeeping, insurance, taxes and utilities. With assisted living, resident fees cover everything, including swimming pools, entertainment, housekeeping and essential care support. So, aside from saving money, residents avoid the stress and financial burden of owning a home.

• MYTH #6: The food is bland and unappetizing.

In reality, assisted living facilities often hire chefs, nutritionists, and other professionals to ensure meals are nutritious as well as flavourful. Some higher-end residential homes also have bars, sushi and other fine dining options.

• MYTH #7: I won’t be able to personalize my room.

Many retirement facilities encourage their residents to maintain their personal style and taste. Residents are free to decorate their rooms with personal items like pictures, books and furniture. However, tiles, wall paint and other fixtures are usually not allowed to be changed. 
No one ages in the same way. Some seniors need a little help with daily chores; others don’t. Irrespective of their requirements, all seniors can benefit from the care and amenities that reputable retirement residences provide, especially given that the myths outlined here are just that – myths. Although it can be challenging for seniors to move out of the home they’re accustomed to, the advantages of assisted living are more than you would expect.