Assisted Living Myth

Author

Oasis Senior Advisors Orlando

Posted on

Jan 22, 2021

Book/Edition

Florida - Orlando

Assisted Living two words that strike fear into the hearts of many. Images of losing independence and the foreboding 1970s Nursing Home are invoked. Some envision neglected loved ones with poor care and minimal socialization for a hefty cost. Others prefer the stability and predictability of staying in the home theyve lived in for years, even if a change may be for the better.

Todays Assisted Living Communities are designed for social activity, personal care, health management, nutrition, affordability, safety, and most of all, quality of life. Maintaining independence is a top priority for residents and communities alike. Once a senior gets help with the activities with which theyve been struggling with, theyre now empowered in every other aspect of their life. Nobody is in the business of telling you what to do.
The best way to combat the assisted living myth is to visit in-person and see for yourself. By examining current residents quality of life, one can overcome their assumptions of the Nursing Home. At Oasis Senior Advisors, were at your side every step of the way, from finding the right communities, accompanying you on your tours, and representing you through the agreement process. It is always best to start this process early to ensure the senior is able to participate in the selection and touring process. Its lower stress (and even fun!) to embark on this journey when you have time and resources instead of a panic when theres an emergency.

Though many emphasize aging in place, homes are not conducive to easy mobility. Houses may have stairs and bathrooms that arent designed for walkers or wheelchairs, and getting help can be both difficult and expensive. Assisted Living Communities can be both a safe haven for seniors and a stress reducer for families, now knowing their loved one is protected. Trepidations surrounding cost can be minimized by understanding what is included in that cost: meals, utilities, laundry, household maintenance, property taxes, and care services. Many current expenses, like home insurance and mortgage, will disappear. It can also be cheaper than homecare since one caregiver can be shared between multiple residents. The senior living industry has revolutionized itself into something to be celebrated. Seniors can set themselves up for a future of independence through the reassuring avenues of care, safety, and socialization. Assisted living can and should be the beginning of a new adventure. 


Written by Steven Moses, CSA, President and Certified Senior Advisor with Oasis Senior Advisors. He can be reached at 407-250-8100 or visit OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/Orlando

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Staffing Requirements in Assisted Living

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Heres a detailed breakdown: 1. Minimum Weekly Staff HoursPer Florida Administrative Code Rule 59A36.010, ALFs must meet a minimum number of direct care staff hours each week based on total residents (including daycare and respite). Independent living residents receiving no services are excluded. # ResidentsStaff Hours/Week051686152121625253263529436453354655375566541666754577685498869553996++42 hours per week for each additional 20 residents 2. Staff Availability & Ratios24/7 supervision:At least one qualified staff member must be on-site anytime residents are present home.caringdata.com+5casetext.com+5quality.healthfinder.fl.gov+5.For facilities with 17+ residents, one staff member must be awake and present around the clock FirstAid/CPR coverage:At all times, someone on duty must hold a valid First-Aid and CPR certificate (nurse, EMT, or paramedic qualifies) .Responsible staff in absence:If the administrator or manager is absent longer than 48 hours, a written-designated staff member (21+) must oversee facility duties  3. Staff Qualification & TrainingAdministrator oversight:Every ALF must be supervised by a licensed administrator responsible for operations and staff management.Preservice & Core Training:New staff must complete at least 2 hours of orientation before resident interaction.Ongoing training related to job duties and care must meet FAC 59A36.011 requirements. Medication assistance:Staff helping with self-administration of medication require 6 additional training hours, followed by 2 hours annually. Background screening:All employees (including contracted staff) must undergo Level 2 background checks.  4. Documentation & OversightSchedules & recordkeeping:Facilities must maintain written 24hour staffing schedules and time sheets. 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