Who Qualifies for Assisted Living?
As we age, it’s essential to explore the different senior living options that can provide supportive environments and solutions for our evolving needs, whether you require a helping hand with activities of daily living (ADLs) or other routine tasks that are vital for maintaining independence.
Assisted living communities offer a wide range of services, amenities, and care options that promote independence and enhance quality of life by bridging the gap between independent living and 24/7 supportive care services. But who qualifies for assisted living, and how can you or someone you love be sure that assisted living is the right choice?
At Uplands Village, our Fletcher House Assisted Living neighborhood offers short-term and long-term assisted living options for those looking for compassionate care and support that can help them enjoy a high quality of life – all while exploring opportunities to enhance their lifestyle and discover their passions. Our team is sharing information about who qualifies for assisted living and if you or someone you love could benefit from this lifestyle option.
Age
Assisted living communities are residential homes that provide support and assistance to individuals who need help with daily living activities. These communities usually have age requirements that potential residents must meet. For instance, the minimum age requirement for assisted living communities usually ranges from 55 to 65 years of age, depending on the community.
However, there is usually no specific maximum age limit, as eligibility primarily depends on an individual’s health and ability to benefit from the services provided by the community. Therefore, assisted living communities usually assess potential residents’ health and ability to determine if they are suitable candidates for the services offered. At Uplands Village, for example, we offer three levels of assisted living care, ensuring we can meet the needs of individuals with a range of support needs and preferences.
While the age requirements for some assisted living communities are set to ensure that residents are within a certain range, remember that age is not necessarily the main determining factor for a person’s eligibility.
Health and Medical Conditions
Before discussing whether a person’s medical conditions qualify them for assisted living, it’s important to discuss the difference between assisted living options and skilled nursing care.
Assisted living communities cater to individuals who are generally healthy but may require some assistance with bathing, grooming, dressing, and managing medications. The primary goal of assisted living communities is to promote independence while providing support in a community environment that meets the residents’ physical, emotional, and social needs.
On the other hand, skilled nursing care is designed for individuals who require medical care and supervision around the clock. These communities offer a higher level of care, including physical and occupational therapy, wound care, medication administration, and post-hospitalization care. Skilled nursing residents are typically those with chronic health conditions or illnesses or those recovering from surgery or a hospital stay.
Somebody who requires care that can only be administered by licensed nurses and professionals in a skilled nursing setting should not consider assisted living options.
Level of Independence
A person’s level of independence needed for assisted living depends on the community. For instance, some communities may require residents to be capable of performing some activities of daily living independently, while others may offer more comprehensive support.
Assessments are conducted to determine an individual’s ability to perform ADLs. These assessments evaluate an individual’s ability to perform tasks such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and meal preparation. The results of these assessments help match individuals with assisted living options that can meet their specific care needs.
Lifestyle Preferences
Assisted living communities provide a sense of community for residents, ensuring they receive the social connection and life enrichment they deserve.
Each assisted living community has its own unique amenities, services, and programs. For instance, some communities may have fitness centers, swimming pools, and walking trails for residents who prefer an active lifestyle. Other communities may offer arts and crafts studios, game rooms, and community gardens for those who prefer quieter activities. Uplands Village offers all of the above, enabling individuals to create their ideal retirement lifestyle in Pleasant Hill, Tennessee.
It is crucial to consider personal preferences when choosing an assisted living community to ensure that you or someone you love can enjoy a retirement lifestyle that is closely aligned with your own interests and hobbies. Ultimately, finding the right community provides individuals with a sense of belonging, support, and fulfillment.
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At Uplands Village, our assisted living options are ideal for older adults who want to maintain their independence, receive daily support, and discover an enriching lifestyle.
Contact a member of our team today to learn more about our life plan community in Pleasant Hill, Tennessee.