Looking after elderly parents or loved ones can feel like an overwhelming task. This is especially hard if you are trying to raise a young family yourself and also working full time. 

This is why an assisted living facility could be the best option for you and your loved ones. However, it can be difficult to know which is the right assisted living facility for everyone involved.

In this article, we will explain the benefits of assisted living in Washington DC, and what exactly you should be prepared for. Read on to find out more.

What is an Assisted Living Facility? 

Assisted living facilities are places where senior people can live and lead independent lives. However, they still have access to support and help if they need it. They offer a range of support such as daily meals, transportation, help with medication, activities, and more.

Depending on the type of assisted living facility you choose they may also have additional amenities. They have things such as exercise rooms, theatres, cafes, private grounds, and entertainment. 

If your loved one enjoys a range of hobbies and an active lifestyle, it’s worth making sure that the assisted living facility has plenty of events. It should also offer communal areas and activities for them to enjoy.

Choosing a Place which is Flexible

Every assisted living facility will have its own standards of care and amenities. One thing you should always look for is flexibility. You want to know that your loved one in Washington is being taken care of and their own needs are being met.  

The sign of an excellent assisted living facility is one that is centered around the individual. They recognize that every senior or elderly resident will have a different set of requirements and care they need to function. 

The staff will need to be highly experienced and adaptable to any changes in your loved one’s condition and keep you aware of any new developments.

Facilities That Focus on Comfort 

If you are wanting your loved ones to make the move to assisted living, one of the main requirements should be comfort. In the Washington DC area, there are plenty of facilities, however, not all are predominately focused on comfortable living spaces.

You want your relative to enjoy their time in their new surroundings, with all the comforts and luxuries of home. They don’t want to feel that they are in a medical facility that is clinical and doesn’t have a personality.

Have a look at their individual self-contained spaces and see how the room feels. Do they have extra special touches that make the space feel homely? It’s important that your loved one has a space in which they feel welcome and at home.

This should also be the same for the communal spaces. The dining area and living spaces should feel cozy and somewhere your loved one would enjoy spending time in. 

Another thing to consider is whether they have private grounds or an outdoor area where they can spend time when the weather is nice and pleasant. It can be great also if they have outdoor seating where they can socialize too in the summer or springtime.

Having a Social Calendar 

One thing that can be great about assisted living facilities is that it’s a good way for your loved one to meet people of a similar age to them and have a built-in social network.

If they were previously living alone they might have felt lonely and even at risk for things such as depression. Social isolation can lead to severe health conditions and increase the likelihood of chronic illnesses. 

With assisted living, this will never be the case as they will be surrounded by seniors they can interact with on a daily basis, as well as trained staff who can organize events and special classes.

Your loved ones will be able to partake in activities and exercise that will help them with keeping active and entertained. An active and engaged brain has also been scientifically linked with delaying symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s.

If your loved one has been diagnosed with one of those diseases it can be reassuring to know they are in a place that is helpful in stimulating their brain and keeping them active. 

A Wide Range of Food Choices

If you are looking for an assisted living facility in the Washington area, you want your loved one to have access to great food!

The food at an assisted living facility should be delicious whilst also making sure that they are getting enough of their essential vitamins and nutrients. A facility that is concerned with the nutrition needs of their residents and also letting them enjoy a range of cuisines is an indication of an ideal place.

As your loved one gets older they will find that the things they used to do for themselves, such as cooking, aren’t as easy. They could even end up injuring or burning themselves in the process.

At an assisted living facility, they are still able to enjoy a wide range of food and home cooking, without the stress of having to buy the ingredients or cook it themselves.

Assisted Living, Washington DC: Where Can I Find Out More?

When it comes to the safety and care of your loved ones, choosing the right assisted living facility is paramount. If you are looking for assisted living in Washington DC you should also keep in mind that they should have plenty of activity and ways to socialize in their new surroundings. 

It might take a little while in terms of an adjustment period whilst your loved one settles in, but assisted living can be a great option for many families. 

If you would like to find out more, why not take an online tour and have a look for yourself?