5 Common Myths About Assisted Living

Posted on

Oct 11, 2017

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Believe it or not, Assisted Living Communities have been around since the 80s. Their popularity grew over the next two decades and eventually gained acceptance as an attractive living option for older adults. Despite being more mainstream now, some common myths still exist.
1. Ill Lose My Independence Assisted Living Communities (ALs) promote independence, privacy, choice, and dignity, all while offering a personalized care plan to meet an individuals needs. Many people find that moving to an AL frees them up to do the things they choose, rather than using their energy to do the things they must. Those who are no longer driving actually gain freedom with the transportation options offered by the AL. Residents can come and go as they please, have visitors, and even go on vacation.
2. Its Too Expensive - When comparing the cost of home ownership (paying for personal care assistance, housekeepers, landscapers, food, utilities, maintenance, insurance, and taxes) with assisted living, many times it is less expensive at an AL. Long Term Care Insurance and the Veterans Aid & Attendance Benefit sometimes help with the cost of AL.
3. Moving is Too Overwhelming - Many people are making a living out of helping seniors move theyre called Senior Transition Specialists. They take care of everything from packing, transporting, unpacking, arranging furniture, hanging pictures, to making the bed. Some companies offer estate liquidation services, so you dont have to worry about what to do with the things you no longer need or want.
4. My Kids are Putting Me Out to Pasture If your kids are encouraging you to consider Assisted Living, its only because they are concerned about you and want to know you are safe, have help if you need it, and are getting the most out of life.
5. I Wont Know Anyone While this may be true, it is also true that as we get older our social circles tend to get smaller. In an AL, you have a whole building full of people who were once in the same position and who would like to get to know you better. Who knows? You may have something in common!

There are many benefits to residing in an Assisted Living Community. Keep an open mind, do your research, and know your options so that you can make an informed decision. You have nothing to lose and plenty to gain!
Editors Note: This article was submitted by Jennifer Armenia, Marketing Director, One MacDonough Place. She can be reached at 860-358-5802 or Jennifer.Armenia@midhosp.org

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