3 years ago · admin · 0 comments

Currently Aging in Place? Learn about an Alternative to Traditional Retirement Senior Living

Many Canadians want to age in place in their own home or community, they wish to live at home for as long as possible.  Seniors much prefer aging in place compared to facility care, but sometimes physical or cognitive decline makes it difficult to live independently.  The decision to age in place allows seniors to enjoy a sense of independence and comfort that only home can provide.  They also enjoy better health outcomes on average, despite lower care costs.

However, the choice to age in place isn’t always as simple as it may seem.  While staying at home has some obvious advantages, there are also several disadvantages, the biggest one being feelings of loneliness and isolation.  Even with friendly neighbors and family nearby, older adults that live alone often succumb to feeling lonely and socially isolated.

As an aging senior, even if you have made the decision to age in place, it is important to start planning so you are prepared to respond to changes that may occur as you age; such as changes in your health, mobility or social connections. It is also important to consider the unexpected, such as a sudden onset of chronic illness, development of a disability or a change in resources.

Families often presume that traditional retirement homes or institutional care are the only alternatives to living independently in your own home.  However, there are plenty of alternatives to traditional retirement communities or assisted-living facilities.  One of these options is often referred to as “micro-communities”, “residential assisted-living care”, “board and care homes” or “smaller-scale assisted living”.

These communities are known as “homelike residential/assisted living care”, as the name suggests, these are small communities that are great for the senior who wish to avoid a larger, institutional, crowded assisted living facility.

The phrase “assisted living” typically conjures up images of a sterile, hospital-like environment, but there are newer options for seniors who want a high level of care in a warmer, more home-like atmosphere. This unique senior living model means more interaction between staff members and residents in a relaxed environment.

Interested in learning more about residential senior living?  Call us today 519-534-5878 or Request your Information Package Today!