When one parent needs extra everyday support and the other doesn’t, it can require a unique approach to help them. But what are your options if only one parent needs assisted living while the other prefers to remain independent?
If this is the case, transitioning to assisted living can offer meaningful support and peace of mind. The parent who needs assistance can receive customized care, while the independent parent can enjoy a simple, maintenance-free life alongside their spouse.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is a type of long-term care designed to provide personal support with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. It’s ideal for seniors who need assistance with these tasks but don’t require advanced medical care. The focus is on maintaining and enhancing the quality of life residents already enjoy.
In a senior living community, residents have 24/7 access to professional support and a personalized care plan tailored to their needs. When daily tasks like grooming or managing medications become challenging, compassionate caregivers are there to help.
Assisted living aims to create a supportive environment where seniors can thrive, maintaining their dignity and independence with confidence.
Who Should Move to Assisted Living?
Deciding if it’s time to move to assisted living begins with an open and honest conversation with your parents. Sometimes, it can be difficult to recognize that they’re struggling with everyday tasks. Ask them questions that explore their well-being, like:
- How are you managing daily tasks like cooking and cleaning?
- Do you feel safe and comfortable in your current home?
- Are there any tasks you find overwhelming or difficult to keep up with?
- Do you have access to the social activities you enjoy?
- Is managing medications becoming challenging?
- Could a supportive community improve your daily quality of life?
During this conversation, focus on the benefits of a move to assisted living, emphasizing that it’s about them getting support when they need it so they can maintain an independent and fulfilling lifestyle.
What to Do If Parents Have Different Caregiving Needs
When one parent needs daily assistance and the other wishes to remain independent, finding a supportive, shared environment can feel difficult. Fortunately, some communities offer the flexibility to accommodate both parents’ needs under one roof.
This approach offers practical and emotional benefits:
- The parent who needs help receives dedicated support tailored to their daily needs.
- The independent parent can maintain their lifestyle while staying closely connected.
- Both parents enjoy access to shared amenities, social opportunities, and a strong sense of community.
- Families have peace of mind, knowing both parents are safe, supported, and thriving in a familiar environment.
The Benefits of Moving to Senior Living
Deciding to transition to senior living is an important choice for both your parents and your family. It’s essential to have an open conversation with your parents to understand their needs and what will help maintain their well-being and quality of life.
Senior living communities offer many benefits. Residents can enjoy easy access to all kinds of amenities, events, and experiences, such as:
- A maintenance-free lifestyle focused on comfort, convenience, and support.
- Access to activities and events that promote activity, connection, and community.
- Restaurant-style nutritious dining options that meet specific dietary restrictions.
- Access to fitness programs and wellness initiatives that encourage a healthy lifestyle.
- On-site salon and spa services, movie theater and off-site shopping, museum trips, and more.
- An indoor pool with hydrotherapy programs, aquatic classes, and water aerobics.
While the decision to move can seem overwhelming, focusing on these positive changes can ease the transition. Senior living communities offer more than just care; they help your parents live a fulfilling, vibrant lifestyle they deserve that adapts to their changing needs.
How to Choose the Right Senior Living Community
Choosing the right senior living community is an important decision. You’ll need to consider many factors, so take your time to consider the options.
Visiting potential communities provides an invaluable opportunity to see if the environment feels right and matches your loved one’s needs.
When evaluating a community, consider these factors:
- Location: Proximity to family, friends, and familiar places can make a big difference in helping your loved one feel connected.
- Amenities & services: Look for amenities that enrich daily life, such as dining options, social events, wellness programs, and more.
- Cost & financial options: Assess the financial plans available to find an option that suits your family’s budget while providing quality care.
- Community atmosphere: Social culture and atmosphere are vital. Try to get a sense of whether the community feels friendly, welcoming, and aligned with your loved one’s personality.
- Safety & emergency measures: Check the safety protocols and emergency response plans to ensure peace of mind for your family.
The right community can make all the difference by providing a supportive environment that eases the transition and helps your loved one feel valued and comfortable.
Make the Move to Assisted Living
Moving to senior living can be an excellent way to help a parent thrive with the right level of support. Whether one or both of your parents could use a little extra assistance, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
We’d love to help you explore options that suit your family’s unique needs. We love showing off our community. Call us today to schedule a visit!
