With concerns about the pandemic looming large in everyone's minds, you may be wondering if assisted living is the right choice. You might have questions about the safety of assisted living facilities, especially in light of the social distancing recommendations issued by the government. Senior care allows seniors to live full lives that feature independence and dignity. That's true now more than ever. Here are four reasons to choose assisted living during the coronavirus pandemic.
1. Take fewer trips to the store.
Older people and those with preexisting conditions are more susceptible to COVID-19. If seniors do contract the virus, they're more likely to get seriously ill. Experts recommend that people stay home as much as possible in order to minimize their exposure to the virus. This is especially important for at-risk populations. When you move into an assisted living facility, meals will be provided for you. You won't need to leave your home to purchase groceries, which means you're less likely to be exposed to COVID-19.
2. Get tested for the coronavirus.
Testing is an important part of managing the spread of COVID-19 and treating people who are infected. Assisted living facilities are committed to the health and safety of their residents. To this end, many facilities offer testing for symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. A confirmed negative test will give you greater peace of mind. You'll be able to socialize with other residents who do not have the virus, without worrying about contracting a dangerous disease.
3. Feel safer with policies designed to protect your health.
Social distancing is important because it helps contain the spread of the virus. People can carry COVID-19 and infect others even if they aren't currently showing symptoms. Visits from people who live outside the community can compromise everyone's health. In order to protect residents, many assisted living facilities are adopting stricter visitation policies on a temporary basis. By minimizing the number of visits from nonresidents, senior care staff strives to keep all residents safe. You can rest assured that your home will be a safe place when you move into an assisted living facility.
4. Enjoy communal spaces.
Assisted living facilities offer private apartment living, but they also feature excellent communal spaces. Swim in the onsite pool or take advantage of the community gym. Exercise is an important part of overall wellness. Regular exercise boosts your immune system and helps you stay healthy. Take advantage of great exercise facilities when you live in an assisted living community.
Older adults sometimes see nursing care as an all-or-nothing scenario. They assume they are either at home living independently, or they are in a nursing home where everything is done for them. This is not really the case, however. There are plenty of in-between options for older adults who need some care, but who may not need full nursing assistance yet. Assisted living centers allow this flexibility. Your older loved one can simply have their meals provided for them, or they can have around-the-clock care — or somewhere in-between. We invite you to explore the content provided to learn more.