When you’re not sure about something, your first reaction might be to just avoid it, or become wary. But doing so could deprive you of something wonderful. Take fears about assisted living, for example. The more you learn about how this exceptional lifestyle can enhance your life, the quicker your apprehension will fade.
Common fears about assisted living, and what’s really true
“It will feel like an institution.”
This is one of the most common fears about assisted living…dark, dreary hallways filled with gloom and boredom. If this is your perception, you are in for a big surprise! Today’s modern assisted living settings are lively, cheerful settings where residents and staff can easily connect and engage in all kinds of activities and programs. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, and independence is the name of the game.
When you first visit The Herrick House, you feel the difference right when you walk in: residents and family members are milling about, greeting one another with a smile. There’s often music playing and bright conversation. We are truly like a family, where you are surrounded by familiar faces happy to help you enjoy every moment.
“The food will not meet my standards.”
Everyone has fond memories of good home cooking, and understandably is hesitant to give that up. But the reality so often is that as a person ages, home cooking becomes less frequent and maybe even impossible. Good news: assisted living has come a very long way in ensuring that residents have access to fresh, delicious food prepared under the watchful eyes of a professional culinary staff. Dietary restrictions are honored and there’s usually flexibility in the menu.
And then there’s the pleasure of a comfortable and pleasant dining experience, which is just one of the perks of modern assisted living. In fact, at The Herrick House, residents enjoy a special bonus: dining rooms that allow for an intimate, cozy experience with acoustics that are just right for conversation.
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“I’ll just have to move again if my needs change.”
It’s smart to plan for the future, especially when you are thinking about the health and safety of a loved one, or for yourself. One of the common concerns about assisted living is what happens when needs change. The answer is often to select a community that includes all levels of care—a full continuum of care—so that there is no worry about what comes next. That’s what you find at The Herrick House: assisted living, memory care, and respite care.
The Herrick House is part of Beth Israel Lahey Health, so staff can easily connect residents and families to a comprehensive range of healthcare services. We are located on the campus of Beverly Hospital, and a stone’s throw from Ledgewood Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center. Put it all together and you have great peace of mind now, and in the future.
“If I stop driving, I’ll give up my independence.”
Everything about assisted living is centered on giving you more independence…keeping you active, healthy, and engaged so that you have confidence as you plan your day. Scheduled transportation is one of the perks that can re-open many possibilities. In addition to riding with the group for outings to groceries, drug stores, physician appointments and other business services, you’ll have opportunities to visit museums, farmers’ markets, lunch spots, parks, entertainment venues and more.
Been missing going to the theater because you’d rather not drive at night? No problem. Join the group for a trip to the theater. No need to drive, park, or worry. And don’t forget: if you want to keep your car, you can do so. But just think how nice it would be to leave the driving to someone else!
“I won’t be comfortable depending on others.”
What if you could live in a wonderful resort where you were free to go about your day as you choose, but if you needed a hand occasionally, you knew someone was right there? That’s what personal assistance in assisted living is all about.
We don’t get in your way; we help you get on your way. Maybe it’s a helping hand with dressing. Or assisting you with a medication schedule. Whatever the task, you don’t have to handle it all by yourself because there’s someone close by who’s happy to help.
“I’ll have to give up my house.”
Yes, you will give up some things. Like climbing attic stairs. Raking leaves. Shoveling snow. Scheduling repairs and waiting on someone to show up. Worrying with meal preparation. Feeling lonely because there’s no one there to dine with, talk to, or connect with when you’re wanting company.
Instead, by choosing assisted living, you’ll enjoy a comfortable, cheerful setting where you can be around good friends and good times. You’ll savor a sense of safety and security, and know you have a plan in place for what comes next. But be warned: you are most likely going to feel years younger!
Don’t let common fears about assisted living keep you from having the best!
Take a good look at what today’s assisted living communities can offer you—at The Herrick House in Beverly, Massachusetts, our mission is to make individuals feel right at home. We invite you to learn more.
At The Herrick House, life revolves around you. Download your free copy of our Family Decision Toolkit. Contact us to learn more about The Herrick House or to schedule a tour.
