Before the early 90s, disabled people were not as protected by federal laws (concerning their civil rights) as they are today. However, with the passing of The Americans with Disabilities Act, the entire nation has to adhere to the new regulations, buildings have to be catered to people with disabilities, and the entire perception surrounding disabilities has changed. People who required wheelchairs to move about now find that it is easier to get around, and many assisted living communities showcase living conditions that are comfortable for disabled residents.
Although there has been great improvement toward people with disabilities, there are still state laws that regulate the acceptance of disabled and wheelchair-bound residents and have led to communities that reject these individuals entirely. However, with adjustments to the law, these policies can now be challenged stating the above Act. As such, residents who are disabled and require the usage of wheelchairs can now find proper residential care and assisted living options without worrying about rejection.
Assisted Living
What exactly is assisted living? Assisted living communities are places in which close-knit groups of elderly individuals live and socialize. These communities offer services to your loved ones who might require assistance in their daily routines. While they are being assisted, the amount of assistance and care that is provided in these communities can vary based on the differences in available activities, amenities, and other services which are provided. Residents who opt for assisted living options are usually individuals who have small to intermediate care needs. Depending on the level of assistance needed, your loved ones can also choose to hire professional home caretakers to visit and help them.
Benefits of Assisted Living for Disabled Loved Ones
For independent living options, residents might find that the support provided and the amenities available might be less extensive than that of assisted living communities. The fact is that there are more wheelchair-friendly features available for residents who choose assisted living. Furthermore, residents can enjoy the following services:
- Accessibility aids: For disabled residents, it is important that they can get help in times of emergency. With these aids, they can utilize emergency response systems and mounted grab railings which allow them to call for assistance when needed.
- Personal care assistance: Assisted living communities can reduce the amount of stress and anxiety that residents face, especially when they are living with disabilities. By offering these services, they can maintain a better level of mobility and comfort.
- Physical therapy: By offering physical therapy sessions, residents who are not as mobile can work to improve their physical conditions and potentially alleviate the elements of chronic pain that come with their disabilities.
Who Should Choose Assisted Living?
The individuals who are best suited for assisted living are people who require the usage of wheelchairs and are mobile enough to walk with assistance. It is also best that these residents are capable of transferring their bodies to and from their wheelchair, or can be carried by only one care assistant. With this in mind, disabled residents who opt for assisted living can be assisted in their everyday activities such as dressing, cleaning, and running errands.
