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March 2007

Specialty Programs in Assisted Living:
Providing Extra Care When Needed

Assisted living residences provide seniors with the opportunity to enjoy a high quality of life while receiving necessary personal care and services in a home-like setting. These communities are particularly appealing to the families of older Americans who have functional or mental limitations as well as those who cannot live independently and require skilled nursing home care.

Assisted living communities are designed specifically for this population of seniors. Residents have access to assistance with daily activities such as meal preparation, dressing and bathing. It also provides a sense of security for them to have emergency response systems readily available in apartments and common areas. More importantly, it provides an enjoyable setting for the residents to focus on the fruits of their retirement. Resident-focused communities offer a variety of activities designed to stimulate the mind, body and spirit of their residents. These activities include educational classes, art and craft projects, exercise regimens and other socially focused events.

Many assisted living facilities are taking a fresh approach to present their campuses to potential prospects and residents. They are developing new offerings to highlight a more communal setting. For example, neighborhood concepts are becoming more common, and they are being designed to provide a better atmosphere where residents can feel more at home. Suites are becoming available in one- or two-bedroom models with their own kitchenette and private bath. The suites feature common space areas such as living and family rooms similar to what would be found in any conventional suburban home.

This neighborhood concept is ideal for seniors with special needs. Older Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia require a safe living environment with an appropriate amount of care assistance. This specialty program provides the same home-like setting with the extra attention to detail. It features screened-in porches and enclosed courtyards as well as enhanced safety and security measures.

Specialty programs in assisted living more often present a greater caregiver-to-resident ratio as well. This allows highly trained staff to provide the specialized care that is needed. Like all assisted living residents, an individual care program determines the curriculum for seniors in specialty programs. Family input is a crucial element not only for developing a resident care program but also for putting it into action.
    

Reprinted with Permission
Life Care Services, Inc.

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