What is Assisted Living, and When Do You Need It?
The Terraces at Bonita Springs
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Feb 04, 2022
Florida - Southwest
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This guide will help you consider all relevant factors in your decision about whether it is time for assisted living.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living communities are designed to provide personalized care services to older adults in a setting that accommodates them to live as independently as possible. Assisted living (AL) is best suited for seniors who need some assistance completing daily activities and would benefit from some aspect of an assisted living facility.
Examples of services you can expect at an assisted living facility are:
Personalized Care: Whether your family member needs memory care, medical care or management of a chronic illness, they can find quality care at an assisted living facility. They will create an individualized care plan for your loved one that will shift with their needs.
Care Coordination: Sometimes what is most stressful is not the level of care that your family member needs but the number of different health care providers that they see regularly. Often this lands on the shoulders of a loved one to manage, but with assisted living, professional caretakers will coordinate your loved ones appointments and care.
Maintenance-Free Living :In many cases, the conversation about a move to assisted living is prompted by a change in a loved ones independence. It might become more difficult for them to complete daily living tasks like cooking, driving and cleaning. At an assisted living campus, these sorts of tasks can be taken care of by caring staff.
Medication Monitoring: Nursing services at an assisted living residence include the monitoring of prescriptions. You can rest easy knowing that there are trained nurses dispensing the medication and overseeing the overall care.
Healthy, Nutritious Meals :A key component to senior living care is ensuring that proper nutrition is easily accessible to residents. A unique aspect of The Terraces at Bonita Springs is that there is a full-time dietician onsite. Your loved one can prepare their own meals in their private residence or they can enjoy meals prepared by our chef in our dining room.
Social Engagement :Often there is a certain amount of isolation that older adults begin to feel when they are no longer able to live as independently as they would like. The transition to assisted living offers them the opportunity to engage in social activities with ease. They offer a calendar of classes, events, religious services and wellness activities.
Assisted living facilities have full-time, 24-hour care available to adults who benefit from personalized care and social activities but who do not require a skilled nursing facility. For some, the transition to assisted living is a pressing need, and for others, it is simply a decision to take advantage of the higher quality of life they offer.
How Do You Know When Its Time To Move to Assisted Living?
The benefits of assisted living are clear, but for many this transition represents a loss or an acceptance of their loved ones decline. It is common for families to wait until they are at a breaking point to make the decision to move into an assisted living facility. Being proactive about this move can help you avoid caretaker burnout and poor health outcomes in your loved one.
Here are some key questions you can ask to better gauge if it is time for assisted living.
1. Can your loved one complete Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) independently?
Some care facilities will ask that you track ADLs to assess the level of independence of a prospective resident. Assisted living is appropriate for those who can perform most daily tasks on their own but may need the assistance of either a caretaker or living accommodations to complete the others.
Examples of Activities of Daily Living are:
Bathing
Dining
Dressing
Toileting
Continence
Assessing your loved ones competence in these areas is the first step. You might also evaluate their current care. Is it effective? Is it sustainable? Is it placing undue pressure on a relationship?
For example, if one of these tasks requires the supervision of another adult and this necessity is becoming a burden to the caretaker, it may be time to consider assisted living. Sometimes this transition can relieve pressure from a loved one and allow them to once again enjoy the role of daughter, son, spouse, or friend without the stress of also being a caretaker.
In addition, you may consider your loved ones demonstrated ability to complete what are often referred to as Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). These are less basic tasks but are still essential to an independent life.
Examples of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living are:
Paying bills
Cleaning
Cooking
Driving
Socialization
The move to an assisted living residence allows for these responsibilities to be shifted to a professional caretaker. If your loved one is able to, though, they can continue to complete these Instrumental Activities of Daily Living.
2. Would your loved one benefit from more social engagement?
In some cases, seniors are still able to conduct their lives independently, but they are finding it difficult in this new stage of life to stay connected and involved in a community. The effects of this isolation cannot be overstated.
What assisted living facilities offer that are difficult to find elsewhere are built-in social engagement opportunities for their residents. At The Terraces at Bonita Springs, residents enjoy our Vitality Program offerings that emphasize and support their overall wellness and independence.
There is a calendar of events that you can be a part of to connect with others, engage in wellness activities or receive assistance with community resources.
3. Do you have a plan for long-term care?
Sometimes it is overwhelming to think about your loved ones health declining. Apart from the obvious sadness that comes with this, discussions about assisted living costs and skilled nursing are rarely pleasant ones. But the reality that your loved one will likely need even more support than assisted living at some point in their life is something you will want to consider.
Making the move toward assisted living now when your loved one can still complete some daily tasks on their own puts support in place now that will make future transitions easier. Often, your family member could even stay in the same senior living community when they are moved from one tier of care to another.
4. Is your loved ones current caretaker able to meet their needs?
So often when a family is considering assisted living for a loved one, the well-being of more than one family member is at stake. The mental and physical fatigue of caring for a loved one is real, and the hidden costs of being a family caregiver can take a toll on your health too.
It is important for caretakers especially those who are family members to have a realistic and objective plan when taking on the role of caregiver for a parent, spouse or sibling. The move to assisted living has the potential to greatly improve not only your loved ones quality of life but yours too.
5. Have you noticed any changes in your loved one?
The final consideration might be the most subjective. In many cases, full-time caretakers cannot clearly see how much their loved ones condition is worsening or how much strain it is placing on their lives.
It can be helpful to ask friends and other family members what changes they are noticing in your loved one and if they think it would benefit them to move to an assisted living facility.
Changes like sleeping more, losing interest in their hobbies or increased forgetfulness should be considered alongside any changes with their physical health. As you note these developments, you can consider the services of an assisted living facility listed above and ask yourself: How would my loved ones quality of life change with a move to assisted living?
Next Steps To Pursuing Assisted Living for Your Loved One
If you'd like more information about the benefits of assisted living, contact The Terraces at Bonita Springs. Wed love to talk about how we can serve your family.
About The Terraces at Bonita Springs
Recreation, special events, holiday celebrations, educational programs, guest speakers and a variety of inspiring activities take place throughout the year at The Terraces at Bonita Springs as part of the community's active lifestyle programs. The Terraces is the only Life Plan Community for senior living in the Bonita Springs area with services and amenities all under one roof. Living choices include independent living, assisted living, memory support, skilled nursing and rehabilitation. All levels of care, including assisted living, skilled nursing and memory support, are open for direct admittance with no entrance fee.
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Exploring the Differences: At-Home Care vs. Assisted Living
When faced with the decision of caring for an aging loved one, families often weigh the options of at-home care versus assisted living. While both choices offer support and assistance, assisted living communities provide a range of benefits that can enhance the quality of life for seniors. Below are some of the differences between at-home care and assisted living, with a focus on the advantages of choosing assisted living for your loved one.At-Home CareAt-home care involves hiring professional caregivers to provide assistance with daily activities within the comfort of the senior's own home. While this option offers familiarity and independence, it also comes with limitations and challenges:Isolation: Seniors receiving at-home care may experience feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially if they live alone. Limited social interaction can contribute to depression and decline in cognitive function.Limited Social Engagement: Without access to a vibrant community of peers, seniors may miss out on opportunities for socialization and meaningful connections. Social isolation can have detrimental effects on mental and emotional well-being.Caregiver Burnout: Family caregivers often shoulder the responsibility of coordinating and supervising at-home care, leading to high levels of stress and burnout. Balancing caregiving duties with other obligations can be overwhelming and exhausting.Assisted LivingAssisted living communities offer a supportive and engaging environment where seniors can receive personalized care and assistance while enjoying a vibrant lifestyle. Here are some of the key benefits of assisted living:Socialization and Community: Assisted living communities provide a sense of belonging and camaraderie among residents. With opportunities for group activities, outings, and shared meals, seniors can cultivate meaningful relationships and enjoy a sense of community.Professional Care and Support: Trained staff members are available around the clock to provide assistance with activities of daily living, medication management, and healthcare needs. Seniors receive personalized care tailored to their individual preferences and requirements.Safety and Security: Assisted living communities offer a safe and secure environment with emergency response systems and on-site staff to address any concerns or emergencies promptly. Families can have peace of mind knowing their loved ones are well cared for and supported.Life Enrichment Programs: Assisted living communities offer a wide range of life enrichment programs and activities designed to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. From fitness classes and hobby groups to cultural outings and educational seminars, there's always something stimulating to participate in.Maintenance-Free Living: Seniors in assisted living communities enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle, with housekeeping, laundry, and meal preparation services provided. This allows residents to focus on enjoying life to the fullest without the burden of household chores.While at-home care provides a level of familiarity and independence, assisted living offers a wealth of benefits that can significantly enhance the quality of life for seniors. From socialization and professional care to safety and enrichment programs, assisted living communities provide a supportive and engaging environment where seniors can thrive and flourish. By choosing assisted living, families can ensure their loved ones receive the care, support, and companionship they deserve as they age gracefully.
Combatting Loneliness: How Senior Living Communities Offer Social Connection and Support
Loneliness is a significant issue affecting many seniors, with profound impacts on their overall well-being and quality of life. As we age, changes in health, mobility, and social circles can contribute to feelings of isolation and disconnection. However, senior living communities offer a solution by providing a supportive environment where seniors can foster meaningful connections and combat loneliness. Understanding LonelinessLoneliness is more than just a feeling of solitudeit's a complex emotional response to perceived social isolation. Seniors may experience loneliness due to a variety of factors, including:Loss of Social Connections: Retirement, loss of a spouse or friends, and changes in living arrangements can lead to a reduction in social interactions and support networks.Physical Health Challenges: Mobility issues, chronic health conditions, and sensory impairments may limit seniors' ability to participate in social activities and maintain relationships.Mental Health Concerns: Depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and isolation, creating a vicious cycle of social withdrawal and decline in well-being.The Role of Senior Living CommunitiesSenior living communities play a crucial role in addressing loneliness among seniors by providing a supportive and engaging environment where residents can thrive. Here's how senior living communities help combat loneliness:Built-In Social Network: Senior living communities offer a built-in social network of peers who share similar interests, backgrounds, and life experiences. Residents have ample opportunities to connect with others through group activities, shared meals, and social events.Community Engagement: Assisted living communities organize a wide range of activities and programs designed to promote socialization and engagement. From fitness classes and hobby groups to cultural outings and game nights, there's always something stimulating to participate in.Supportive Environment: Senior living communities provide a supportive environment where residents feel valued, respected, and included. Trained staff members facilitate social interactions and provide emotional support, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie.Opportunities for Growth: Senior living communities encourage residents to pursue their interests, hobbies, and passions, fostering personal growth and fulfillment. Whether learning a new skill, volunteering in the community, or participating in creative arts, residents have opportunities to explore their interests and talents.Access to Care and Support: In addition to social connection, senior living communities offer access to professional care and support services. Staff members are available around the clock to provide assistance with activities of daily living, medication management, and healthcare needs, ensuring residents feel safe, supported, and well-cared for.Loneliness among seniors is a prevalent and concerning issue, but senior living communities offer a solution by providing a supportive environment where residents can foster meaningful connections and combat social isolation. By promoting socialization, community engagement, and access to care, senior living communities help seniors thrive and enjoy a fulfilling and vibrant lifestyle. If you or a loved one is experiencing loneliness, consider exploring the benefits of senior living and the positive impact it can have on overall well-being and quality of life.
Assisted Living vs. Independent Living: Making the Right Choice
ou know its time to move, but perhaps you are struggling to decide between assisted living vs. independent living. Here are some things to consider about independent living and assisted living communities to help you select the right choice for you or your loved one.Differences Between Independent Living and Assisted LivingIts hard to make broad statements about independent or assisted living communities because services vary at each facility. Here are some general statements about the level of care you would expect from these two types of living situations.Independent LivingIndependent living communities are a great place to enjoy retirement.An independent living community allows you to maintain your independence without having to mow the grass, replace leaky faucets, and clean extra rooms that you no longer use. Instead, you can spend your new-found free time enjoying your favorite pastimes and hobbies and take advantage of programs offered by the senior living community.And you wont be alone, as people living in retirement communities often choose the lifestyle to connect with other people who are at the same time of life.Independent living communities are convenient and comfortable.Independent living costs vary greatly, depending on the services offered by the independent senior living community. Some offer casual and fine dining options and concierge service. Others have on-site housekeeping and laundry services, a salon, workout facilities, and transportation services. Independent living communities give you the chance to live your best life.Assisted LivingYou still can maintain independence by living in an assisted living community.Please understand that while there is a difference between assisted living and independent living communities, you can still maintain a great deal of independence while living in an assisted living facility. You can add or subtract services as needed. However, knowing that medication administration, nursing care, and medical services are available may bring peace of mind to your family members.Assisted living facilities also offer assistance with activities of daily living.One of the main differences between independent and assisted living communities is that assisted living services can include help with bathing and dressing often referred to as the activities of daily living. Assisted living residents can also be helped with medication management as most communities have licensed nurses on site 24/7.Learn About Independent Living and Assisted Living in Your AreaRetirement Unlimited, Inc. (RUI) is a family-owned company offering senior living communities throughout the United States. We provide several options, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care.Schedule a tour of a local community near you to learn more about the difference between assisted and independent living communities by filling out the contact form on our website.Key Takeaways About Different Types of Senior Living CommunitiesIndependent living communities offer programming that helps residents learn and grow during retirement.Independent living facilities are convenient and comfortable.Assisted living facilities offer help with the activities of daily living if you need assistance.
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The Terraces at Bonita Springs
Independent Living 26455 South Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34134Your Personal Retreat for Socialization and RelaxationThe Terraces at Bonita Springs offers a stunning living environment, the finest resort-style amenities and services and the security of predictable pricing for health care as a LifeCare resident.Choose from a one-, two- or three-bedroom floor plan; options include breakfast nooks, dens and additional half- and full-baths. Each residence comes with the finest finishes and appliances, lacking only in your personal touches.Our hospitable associates take care of all the maintenance, cooking and cleaning so you can enjoy a vibrant and connected lifestyle.Resident Services LifeCare health services with priority accessChef-prepared mealsInterior and exterior maintenanceWeekly housekeeping and flat linen servicesConcierge servicesPersonal one-car garageComplimentary valet parkingWellness programs for mind, body and spiritVitality program with personalized wellness plansUtilities (except phone and internet)24-hour securityProperty taxes includedCultural, social, educational and recreational eventsTransportation servicesIn-home emergency alert systemsCommunity AmenitiesMultiple dining venuesState-of-the-art fitness center and wellness programsIndoor and outdoor pool and spa, group water fitness classesCertified fitness instructorsTherapeutic massagePerforming Arts CenterGated communityBeautiful landscaping with lighted walkwaysTennis and bocce courtsPutting greenOutdoor BBQ areaLibrary and resource centerBusiness center with computersCreative arts studio and crafts roomBilliards room/game roomBeauty salon/barbershopGuest suitesActivities CalendarEvery service, activity and amenity available to you is thoughtfully planned with your interests in mind.Exquisite DiningOur elegant restaurant and casual bistro provide just the dining experiences you are looking for.Area AttractionsRetirement life at The Terraces means youre just minutes from beaches, shopping, fine dining and entertainment choices.LifestyleLife at The Terraces is designed to be beautiful, maintenance-free and worry-free.
The Terraces at Bonita Springs
Memory Care 26455 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34134Memory Care in Bonita Springs, FloridaIf you are searching for memory care near me and live in southwest Florida, youve found the perfect place for you and your loved one.Located in Bonita Springs and convenient to those in Estero and North Naples, memory care at Renaissance at The Terraces offers those living with Alzheimers disease or dementia a beautiful, comfortable and welcoming place to call home. With the exceptional memory care, elegant setting and thoughtful lifestyles offered, Renaissance delivers the quality memory care experience that families expect for their loved ones.BROWSE OUR FLOOR PLANSMemory Care that Embraces the Whole FamilyFor those living with Alzheimers or other forms of dementia, (including Lewy body dementia) and for their families, the effects of memory loss can be devastating. We understand. Our exceptional care embraces everyone involved, from our residents to their families. Our trained memory care team works closely with residents every day. Our purpose is to engage each individual in a way that resonates with them personally; this approach respects their choices, promotes their remaining abilities and supports their independence in a safe environment. We also offer support and education for families, helping them to understand and cope with the challenges presented by Alzheimers and dementia. Renaissance, as well as all of The Terraces at Bonita Springs, welcomes family members to not only visit their loved ones but to also take advantage of every amenity offered within our senior living community. After all, this is where their loved one lives this is home. We welcome them to treat it as such. What does that mean to you? It means feeling at home at Renaissance. It means taking a stroll through the grounds. Soaking up the sun by the pool. This community is designed to allow everyone to live well. It means letting us provide care and support while you enjoy being family again.Personalized Alzheimers and Dementia CareWe believe theres no substitute for personalized attention. To us, memory care is only effective when it is incredibly personal, so we get personal. We take the time to get to know our residents. We learn their life stories and really get to know who they are. Through the smallest details residents interests, careers, family histories and favorite foods we can develop personalized dementia care plans and create positive emotional experiences that help stabilize residents moods without relying on pharmacology. Its an innovative approach to memory care in southwest Florida.State-of-the-Art Memory Care FacilityOur memory care facility in Renaissance is state-of-the-art, featuring a neighborhood concept that helps decrease residents anxiety, with common spaces to encourage socialization. No detail has been overlooked; no comfort has been spared. Our residents enjoy spacious private residences with nurses close by, allowing us to provide even better care. Rated 5 stars from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, families can be confident in the quality of our memory care services.Memory Care and Service Details:24-hour licensed nurses available24-hour Certified Nurses Aide assistanceRecreational therapistSecure environmentDedicated professionals specially trained to care for those with memory lossPersonalized care plan tailored to meet unique needs and preferencesSpacious, private studio residences with full private bathsAll utilities provided, including basic cableInclusive pricingMemory boxes to help residents locate their residence independentlySpacious activity and common areas designed to promote social interactionEnclosed courtyard for safe outdoor activities such as walking and family visitsInteractive and socially stimulating programming designed for those with memory loss
Renaissance at The Terraces
Skilled Nursing 26475 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, Florida, 341345-Star Skilled Nursing for Changing Health NeedsWhen someone youre caring for needs more help than youre able to provide, our Medicare-certified skilled nursing offers professional care in a comfortable, homelike setting. Skilled nursing services provide long- and short-term care for those recovering from an illness or injury.Our goal is to give residents the medical assistance they need and the personal engagement and social involvement they want. We subscribe to a philosophy of choice, empowering residents to make their own decisions as much as possible. Our associates are dedicated skilled nursing professionals at Renaissance, which means they can build strong personal bonds with residents. Skilled Nursing at Renaissance is open to the public, without a large entrance fee.Services and Amenities24-hour licensed nurses availableTV room, library and lounge areaFully furnished private suites with a personal bathFlat-screen TV in each residents residenceAll utilities included, including basic cable and local telephone serviceSocial and recreational activities and eventsPhysical, speech and occupational therapiesIndustry-leading staff ratios Short-term rehabilitative careLong-term residential carePost-surgical care IV therapy Pain managementSpecialized wound careOrthopedic rehabilitationFull-time lifestyle staff