Assisted Living Near Niagara Falls: How Seniors Can Stay Independent

Moving into an assisted living facility is a major life transition, especially for seniors who have lived independently for years. While the additional care and assistance provided by assisted living communities are invaluable for older adults, the change can also be intimidating. Many seniors worry about losing their independence.

There is good news: with the right approach, seniors can maintain their autonomy and individuality while benefiting from the services at our assisted living facility in Niagara Falls, Ontario. By personalizing spaces, staying active, and collaborating with staff, seniors can preserve their independence in their new home.

Keep reading for expert tips to remain independent in retirement homes in the Niagara Region.

Expert Tips for Maintaining Independence in Niagara Region Retirement Homes

Here are strategies for seniors to retain their autonomy while benefiting from assisted living support:

1. Bring Personal Touches from Home

It is common for assisted living communities to permit and even recommend that their residents decorate their apartment or room with personal belongings. Having their favourite furniture, photos, keepsakes, pillows, and other familiar items around can help them feel comfortable during the initial adjustment period.

2. Stay Engaged in Meaningful Activities

Participating in social events, physical activities, hobbies, clubs, outings and other programming offered by assisted living facilities near Niagara Falls helps keep seniors engaged. Whether it’s joining a walking club, taking an art class, volunteering in the community garden, or attending a wine & cheese social, staying active promotes independence. Maintaining past interests and learning new skills preserves cognitive function and allows seniors to interact with others on their own terms.

Post Image: Participating in social events offered by assisted living facilities around Niagara Falls helps seniors to keep active.
Alt Tag: Stay Engaged in Meaningful Activities

3. Collaborate with Staff on Care Plans

It is important for seniors to work together with the staff of their assisted living facility to develop personalized care plans that cater to their specific needs and preferences. By sharing information about their routines, food likes/dislikes, sleep patterns, and other personal details, they can receive individualized care without losing control over their decisions.

To maintain their independence, seniors should keep the staff up to date about any changes in their preferences or needs and participate in periodic reviews of their care plans. By keeping the lines of communication open, residents can make sure that their care approaches align with their wishes.

4. Preserve Community Connections

Assisted living communities near Niagara Falls encourage residents to stay connected with the local community. Seniors can participate in various activities such as joining groups or programs available at nearby senior centers, volunteering through service organizations, attending religious services, getting involved politically, and much more.

5. Stay Active and Engaged

Physical activity preserves mobility and reduces reliance on others for basic functions like movement or personal hygiene. Many assisted living facilities provide fitness classes and exercise equipment. Participating in physical and mental activities like crafts, games, and lectures keeps the mind sharp as well. Remember, staying active enables greater independence.

6. Welcome Visitors

Assisted living facilities allow family and friends to visit frequently, providing valuable social connections. Scheduling regular visits and outings with loved ones helps seniors maintain ties to their support networks. Video technology also helps seniors communicate with relatives who cannot visit regularly.

7. Maintain Advanced Directives

Having legal and medical paperwork like living wills, medical power of attorney, Do Not Resuscitate orders, et cetera, in place allows seniors to retain control over their healthcare choices if they cannot verbalize their decisions.

 
While assisted living provides needed support with daily activities, simple adjustments will allow seniors to maintain their treasured independence. With a personalized approach and open communication, assisted living facilities near Niagara Falls help ensure a smooth transition that preserves autonomy. When seniors have control over their care, they can thrive and enjoy their new home. If you are looking for an assisted living facility, choose River Road Retirement Residency. It’s one of the best retirement homes in Ontario and provides top-quality assisted living facilities in the Niagara Region.