One of the fears that seniors have as they age is that they may be separated from their spouse if they need to move to a senior living residence. But this does not always have to be the case. In fact, assisted living provides married seniors with the assistance they require to continue to live independently while staying together. Assisted living offers an inclusive type of lifestyle, including meals, housekeeping services, recreational opportunities, and planned social events. In these residences, couples are relieved of the daily chores and maintenance required when living in their own home but can still enjoy each other’s support, love, and companionship as they always have.
Health & Safety Benefits
Typically when couples live in their own home, the majority of the work and care falls to the stronger or healthier spouse. Assisted living residences offer the chance to live in a safe and secure environment, fully outfitted with health and safety features – not to mention professional staff to provide the best possible care to their elderly residents. These facilities may also provide round-the-clock medical supervision and assistance and vital support services for those who need routine medical attention. Assisted living residences also employ nutritionists who work with individual seniors to consume a healthy, balanced diet and maintain proper nutrition – especially if there are any health concerns. These health and safety measures make assisted living an excellent option for married couples who need some additional assistance in their everyday lives.
Social & Recreational Opportunities for Married Couples
Assisted living communities work hard to keep seniors engaged and active, no matter their age. Married couples who wish to continue to experience social and recreational activities will discover a calendar full of opportunities to do so – whether together or as individuals. Experts advise that social engagement is crucial for seniors to ward off depression, isolation, and other mental health issues. Social activities help them to cultivate meaningful relationships and provide an ideal way to spend quality time with each other and new friends. Activities may range from exercise classes to game nights, worship services to educational opportunities, and art classes to shopping excursions. Not only does staying socially engaged help with physical mobility, but they also represent an opportunity for mental health via an emotional connection.
The Emotional Upside of Married Couples Staying Together
Having the opportunity to live together in an assisted living facility can bring emotional relief to seniors and their families. By staying together, elderly loved ones are able to retain their independence while still obtaining the care they need – without having to sacrifice the most important relationship in their life. The living arrangement supports physical and emotional health, as it permits senior couples to remain active and engaged in activities they enjoy while also providing the quality care that one spouse may require – even if the other spouse does not require any assistance.
Moving to an assisted living residence may seem to represent an opportunity for stress, but anxiety is not a foregone conclusion. With appropriate preparation, you can help to make the transition as easy as possible. Married couples who wish to move into assisted living together should research what each potential residence offers and discuss how they would handle residency as each person ages.
A Banyan Residence provides assisted living and memory care residences for Venice area seniors. Call today to learn more or to take a tour.
