You’ve had “the talk” with your loved one about assisted living, and you both agree that it’s time for them to make the move. Though your loved one agrees with you, they may still have a few reservations about assisted living, and that’s perfectly normal.
Moving to an assisted living community is a brand new adventure for your loved one, and it’s natural to be a little hesitant about the unknown. Help your loved one learn more about assisted living so they can overcome their fears. Here are a few common fears that people have about assisted living and why your loved one shouldn’t worry.
Fear #1: I will lose my independence.
Fact: Mom will have more freedom to enjoy activities that she likes.
While moving to an assisted living community does mean that Mom will have to downsize and change some of her old daily routines to fit her new residence, that doesn’t mean she will have to give up her independence. When she moves to an assisted living community, she will be replacing some of the old with the new. This kind of move can give her even more freedom instead of less independence.
In an assisted living community, Mom will get help with daily tasks that might be difficult for her, like cooking, cleaning, and medication management. Having help with these tasks will give her more free time to focus on other interests and activities that she would rather be doing.
Fear #2: It will cost too much.
Fact: In most cases, assisted living actually costs less than paying for home care for Mom.
The median hourly cost of a home care aide is about $20 per hour, which comes out to about $4,900 a month for a home care aide who works eight hours a day, seven days a week. The cost of assisted living is considerably less.
While other monthly services are available for additional fees, the introductory cost of the Cottages’ Country Cottage in Russellville is $2,047 per month. With good financial planning and benefits like Social Security, VA benefits or long term care insurance, Mom will be able to afford living at an assisted living community.
Fear #3: I won’t get proper care.
Fact: At a licensed assisted living community, the staff will be trained and professional.
Assisted living is not babysitting. Mom should know that when she moves to her new residence, the staff at the community are going to be well-trained, professional and helpful. To ensure that you choose the best fit for Mom, make sure you tour an assisted living community before making the decision to move Mom there.
Fear #4: I will be bored.
Fact: Assisted living communities offer a variety of extra amenities and activities for their residents.
Chances are, once Mom moves into her new home at the assisted living community, she will have so many different choices of activities that she will have very little time to be bored. Many communities offer fun activities and events to their residents like field trips, classes, clubs, fitness options and other social gatherings. Monthly calendars with activities and events specifically geared toward the interests of residents at each community are planned by the assisted living community.
Fear #5: I will feel alone.
Fact: Mom will be surrounded by other residents, and family and loved ones can visit whenever they please.
Perhaps one of the greatest human fears is being alone. You should make extra effort to let Mom know that, though she is moving to a different home, her family and her friends will still be visiting her as much as they were before.
The benefit of living in an assisted living community is that Mom will be surrounded by other seniors who are in similar life stages as she is. She will be able to make new friends who share her interests, and through all of the special events and activities that are offered, she will rarely find herself alone unless she chooses to be.
