You’ve heard lots of great things about assisted living, but you’re still not sure if it’s the right choice for you. Will you be happy? Is it really as carefree as it seems? Having senior living questions is perfectly understandable—especially when many of the questions are things you first need to ask yourself.
Take a look at what you want: Senior living questions to ask yourself
Every person wants to live life on their own terms, and the desire for independence never goes away. But things change over time, and sometimes a little extra support, such as that provided in today’s assisted living, can make all the difference in quality of life—giving you back opportunities to live with confidence and joy again.
Here are some senior living questions to consider as you decide if this lifestyle might work for you:
• Does it feel like all the tasks of home upkeep are becoming overwhelming?
You might love your house, but it might be time to consider if taking care of it is too big a job. Maintaining appliances, furnaces, air conditioning, plumbing and more can feel like a full-time job. There’s the roof. The kitchen flooring and cabinets. Carpeting that needs to be updated. A leaky roof. The list is endless; if you are living on your own, it can feel daunting.
In assisted living, you no longer have a “to-do” list, you instead have a “how would I really like to spend my day” list. No more home maintenance or scheduling repairs. Instead, you are free to relax. Learn to play bridge. Start a new exercise program. Put together a family history. Get to see your grandson’s baseball game. Time is yours to fill as you choose.
• Would you rather not have to shop for food, plan and prepare meals, and do the dishes?
It isn’t easy maintaining a good diet at home, especially if you’re cooking for one. Getting to the store, preparing the meal, cleaning up…now imagine someone else preparing delicious and nutritious food for you and serving it with a smile. Imagine dining in a pleasant atmosphere with good conversation and friendly faces. Having a menu with appealing and tasty choices that accommodates any dietary restrictions you may have. And, maybe the best part, no dishes to wash! Assisted living can put pleasure back into your dining experience.
Download your free copy of our Family Decision Toolkit guide.
• Would you enjoy knowing you didn’t have to drive anymore?
For many seniors, this is one of the most important senior living questions. In assisted living, you can keep your automobile and come and go as you please. But what you don’t have to do is drive in bad weather or the rush hour to get to the doctor or grocer. Instead, scheduled transportation is provided for you. Plus, you can join other residents for regular outings to area sites of interest, lunch spots, parks, festivals and more.
• Would you like more opportunities to be around others, make new friends, and enjoy lively conversation?
Isolation and loneliness are very bad for senior health. The good news is, in assisted living, socializing is easy and fun, and there is always someone close by when you want good company. Card games, movies, concerts, walking groups, exercise classes, birthday parties, social hours, trivia contests…too many to list. Enjoy your privacy and quiet moments anytime you please…knowing good friends are always nearby!
• Do you worry about having help in the event of an emergency?
No one likes to feel vulnerable, but it can happen when you live alone and worry about having an emergency, especially at night or during bad weather.
Living in assisted living, you have the security of knowing a helping hand is always close by, and emergency assistance will be there if needed. In addition, you’re under the watchful eyes of a caring staff who often can spot subtle changes in health and help you avoid possible worsening of symptoms. Feeling safe feels good—and it definitely should be on your list of senior living questions for yourself.
• Are you ready for a carefree, comfortable lifestyle designed for your health and wellness?
Assisted living at The Herrick House in Beverly, Massachusetts creates a wonderful opportunity to socialize and participate in group activities, along with experiencing the benefits of being part of a community of one’s peers. Enjoy all the privacy and independence of living in your own home, while receiving the care and camaraderie you need to maintain a healthy quality of life.
We’d love to help you with any senior living questions you may have.
There are all kinds of ways to spend the day at The Herrick House! Download your free copy of our Family Decision Toolkit guide. Contact us to learn more about The Herrick House or to schedule your visit.