Although the continuing care retirement model remains the most popular assisted living option in the United States, your loved ones have distinct views about where and how they want to mature.
Assisted living serves a vast and diversified demographic, offering everything from resort-style living to more affordable housing and memory care. Today’s older adults are living longer lives, frequently with chronic illnesses.
Many people desire to age in place and be physically active, but they may require caregiving assistance at some point. Making the move from a single-family to a living community is one of the most important decisions they will make in their lives.
There are various crucial trends to consider as you and your loved ones decide on moving to an assisted living community. Read on as this article explores a guide to understanding what your loved ones want in assisted living communities.
Making it Feel Like Home
As the number of living communities increases, a greater focus is placed on making them feel less bureaucratic and more akin to home. This is not a novel concept, but determining exactly what home means to different communities and converting it into design is essential for the successful refurbishment or new building of an old community.
Possessions, on the whole, make a place seem more homely and your loved ones will be more likely to establish an emotional attachment to the space. However, incorporating such features into a smaller retirement community may be difficult. Some communities offer design solutions to assist your loved ones in arranging furniture and artwork in their new community.
Customization, such as the ability to choose hues, textures, and resources, may also provide the feeling of ownership that many people desire.
Housing Features
According to research conducted by LCS and Spellman Brady and Company, fireplaces, warm lounging areas, living plants, windows, and high ceilings are among the house features that older adults value when they move into assisted living communities.
However, do take note that although mats and wood floors are visually appealing, they may not always be the best options due to accidents and slippery concerns. Consider a carpet instead. Carpets are attractive flooring options for your loved ones due to their inherent ability to provide comfort while also giving more grip than a hard floor.
Nature and Greenery
Access to nature, which virtually everyone has had their whole lives, is indeed important. This is also related to Biophilic Design, a new healthcare trend that aims to reconnect individuals with the outdoors. Accessibility to nature allows your loved ones to go on leisurely strolls around the park, which at the same time is good for their mental and physical health!
Community Connection
Isolation from other residents, their extended families, and the community at large is one of the most frequent complaints of senior living residents.
One of the biggest challenges facing owners and operators of assisted living communities is overcoming the isolation barrier. Your loved ones want to remain connected to you, while also making new friends in the community.
