When we envision ‘home,’ the mind often paints images of warmth, the aroma of a familiar kitchen, laughter in the living room, and the comforting sound of the neighborhood around us. Assisted living in senior living communities is not much different.
While aging in place appeals to many older adults, they may not be aware of the many benefits of assisted living. A day in the life of an assisted living resident can include support for daily living, opportunities for learning, engagement, connection, and wellness services.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is a residential setting where individuals who require support with everyday living activities have access to care services. It’s a dynamic environment where loved ones are free to live as independently as their health allows while knowing that a professional caregiving team is close at hand.
Services and amenities in assisted living can include the following:
- Common areas
- Restaurant-style dining rooms
- On-site beauty spa
- Gardening beds
- Expansive grounds
- 24-hour emergency call system
- Movie theater, outdoor community spaces, café, and library
Daily Life in Assisted Living
What does a day in an assisted living community look like? Here’s a window into the structured yet personalized life of an assisted living resident.
Morning Routine
The sunrise in an assisted living community heralds a routine of camaraderie and wellness. After a peaceful night’s sleep, the day begins with a helping hand for getting ready, using the restroom, grooming, and taking medications.
Once an assisted living resident is ready, they might join fellow residents for a healthy breakfast that meets individual preferences and dietary restrictions. During breakfast, residents may share stories and plan their day.
For some, morning activities are an opportunity to meet new friends. For others, it’s a continuation of friendships that have bloomed since moving in. Activities can include games, morning exercises, or even book clubs. It’s not just about keeping the body and mind sharp; these engagements form the social aspects of the assisted living community.
Afternoon Activities
As the day progresses, so does the pulse of activities. Assisted living communities curate a range of programs designed to cater to the diverse interests of their residents. From walking groups and yoga to bingo and music, the afternoon becomes a blank canvas that residents can paint with their preferred activity.
Amidst personal time, there are also scheduled exercises and therapy sessions, a crucial aspect of maintaining health for older adults. Physical and occupational therapies are usually tailored to residents’ needs.
Evening & Nighttime
The setting sun marks the transition to a more leisurely pace. Dinner is a communal affair, with residents and staff coming together to enjoy culinary delights in restaurant-style dining rooms.
The evening entertainment might include movies, live music, or games, providing a mix of relaxation and invigoration. Staff may assist with whatever is needed at bedtime, such as medication reminders, personal care, and a comforting presence for those who require it.
Staff Interactions
Throughout the day, staff at assisted living communities are there to provide safety, security, and support. Each resident’s health and well-being are front and center and guide the actions of the caregiving team.
From trained medical professionals to maintenance staff, all parties help provide an environment to enhance the residents’ physical, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual well-being.
One of the distinguishing features of an assisted living community is the staff-resident relationship. It’s a bond that grows stronger through the day-to-day interactions—the laughter shared at a joke, the encouragement given during therapy, the support offered during personal care, and sometimes, the empathetic presence through the quieter moments.
Family Involvement
Family members are a cherished part of the assisted living community. While residents enjoy their daily activities and engagements, family visits and interactions provide a bridge to the outside world.
In modern times, assisted living also means modern communication. Families can keep in touch through various digital platforms, and some even participate in activities, helping to keep the family unit as connected as possible.
Assisted Living Lifestyle
For loved ones and their families, assisted living signifies a new beginning. It allows for the continuity of a fulfilling life within a nurturing community that respects the past and embraces the future. Assisted living makes each day a celebration of life by offering a harmonious blend of independence and support.
Understanding the day in the life of an assisted living resident offers a glimpse of what a positive transition into an assisted living community can truly look and feel like. In conclusion, assisted living is more than just a place—it’s a lifestyle.
If you are considering this path for a loved one, schedule a tour with Peregrine Senior Living to learn more about our community and see our services in person.
