Determining whether it’s time for you or a loved one to transition to personal care can feel like a monumental decision. You may be concerned about a loss of independence or moving away from a home filled with years of memories. But the truth is that modern personal care communities are bursting with energy, activity, and joy. In fact, many seniors find that switching to personal care is life-changing, offering a chance at the retirement they’ve desired for so long. Here are four reasons why personal care in West Chester might be right for your loved one.
It Provides a Built-In Community
The older we get, the more difficult it seems to find a community of people to share in the highs and lows of everyday life. One of the biggest perks of transitioning into personal care is the built-in community of peers that it provides. Several studies have shown that people who maintain strong social ties with friends, family, and their community are happier and healthier, and live longer. The opposite is true as well. A lack of strong relationships is associated with depression, later-life cognitive decline, and increased mortality rates. Especially if your loved one is suddenly living alone in their home, personal care is a great option to help reduce loneliness.
Just about every modern personal care community features activity calendars full of stimulating classes, events, and entertainment options to keep residents engaged. Some of the best communities offer everything from yoga and art classes to field trips and gourmet restaurant-style dining, all of which provide plenty of opportunities to form meaningful relationships with fellow residents and staff.
It Allows More Freedom and Independence
Many people may think of personal care communities as places that take away your autonomy. But actually, the opposite is true. Personal care communities provide the level of assistance your loved one needs, whether that’s help with bathing and dressing or reminders to take vital medications, freeing them up to spend their time however they please. And many seniors will be relieved to no longer rely on family members to complete daily tasks.
Communities also typically offer reliable transportation, which can restore a level of independence once lost to those who can no longer drive.
It Can Improve Family Relationships
Many family members will be more than happy to care for their loved ones as they age, but taking care of a parent on top of everything else can strain your physical and emotional reserves. It can also shift the balance of the relationship. Some seniors may feel guilty or embarrassed about leaning too heavily on their family members, leading to frustration on both sides.
Personal care communities manage all your loved one’s essential needs, allowing you to savor every moment you have together and do the things you enjoy.
It Gives You Peace of Mind
Caring for someone is no easy task, and it’s especially difficult if your loved one suffers from dementia or has significant mobility issues. If they are living on their own, or even if they have someone occasionally checking in on them, you may find yourself constantly worrying about their health and safety.
Personal care communities can provide 24-hour care to residents in case of any medical emergencies. Many also have dementia care facilities that can provide consistent monitoring and access to care providers who are well versed in caring for residents with dementia. All of that means peace of mind for both you and your loved one.
How to Find the Right Community for Your Loved One
If you’ve decided that transitioning into a personal care community is the best move for you or your loved one, you’ve taken the first step on a journey to finding a place that fits everyone’s needs. For some guidance on how to land on the perfect match, download our free guide to “Finding a Safe & Comfortable Senior Living Community.”
