The Professional Geriatric Care Manager’s Blog

Assisted Living

One of the things I do as a geriatric care manager is assist families with housing options when their elderly loved-one can no longer remain home alone.  Last week I spent an entire day with two brothers who were looking for assisted living placement for their mother.  They were amazed at the options available and felt so much better with their decision after we finished touring all the communities.

With this in mind I thought I would provide you with a definition of assisted living; if you and your loved-ones are faced with this decision, you’ll have a good understanding of this housing option.

Assisted living is a congregant housing option available to those people who require supervision or assistance with their activities of daily living but do not require complex medical care.  They are generally known of as “communities” and each resident has their own apartment. (Some folks choose to share an apartment.)  The apartments each have a kitchenette which includes cabinets, a sink and a refrigerator.  Some communities provide a microwave or permit residents to bring their own.  Although most of the apartments are small there is plenty of “community space” available to participate in recreational activities and visit with their families.

Each resident is provided with an individualized care plan to ensure their needs for assistance are met.  For some residents this includes assistance with medication administration.  Independence is always encouraged.

Meals are provided with lots to choose from.  There are snacks available throughout the day.  Family members can usually join their loved-one for a meal for a nominal fee.  And most assisted living communities have a private dining room available for special occasions.

Quality assisted living communities have wonderful activity programs with such variety that there is always something to do for everyone.  Many have “mens clubs” for the gentlemen.  And outings are routine, from shopping to lunch to day trips, and more; the residents have an array of things to do to keep their lives active and full.

If you need assistance finding the “right” assisted living community, Distinctive Care Geriatric Care Management can help.  We are also available to assist your loved-one through the transition from home and our counselor helps during this adjustment period.  We have offices throughout Bergen County, in Ridgewood, Tenafly and Dumont and can be reached at 201-587-5283.