Added Safety in Assisted Living During Changing Times

Posted on

Mar 09, 2021

It is the dawn of a new era and conditions are changing, urging forth a new kind of norm in assisted living communities. And its looking good. Infection prevention and control protocols are at the head of every community's priorities. Todays communities have up-to-date testing in place, along with updated social distancing guidelines that allow families more time with their loved ones.

Today people are paying more attention to the need for greater social connections and more opportunities for entertainment and activities for those living in congregate settings. Communities have never been more knowledgeable, more alert, and more attentive at providing their seniors all aspects of living a balanced, healthy, and productive existence.

Todays industry leaders are more acutely aware of the health consequences of isolation and loneliness. It is a safety consideration that can have just as devastating an impact as a physical ailment. There is a domino effect that can happen over time when a senior is living in isolation. Loneliness leads to worse health outcomes as it can cause de-conditioning, worsening of cognitive status, and a higher risk of going to the hospital that can ultimately lead to further health risks.

Another advancement over the last year at senior communities is an awareness of the tremendous benefits of technology in senior living, whether for tele-health or social connectedness. Todays healthcare highlights the significant need for improved technology infrastructure through the US, to ensure that older adults can access needed services, resident engagement, and also stay connected to family. Todays assisted living communities are, in the dawn of this new era, providing their residents with these updated technologies as well as the skills to benefit from them.

Clearly the senior system of today is bringing a new kind of vigilance to protect the health of its seniors. But what is also evident is a newly inspired need to protect the spirit of our nations senior citizens. The spirit that determines resilience and an enthusiasm for embracing each day with joy, purpose and gratitude.
Written By: Ameila Larson
Submitted By: A Life for Seniors

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