By: Nicol Smith, Rambling Oaks Courtyard, for SENIOR Magazine (Denton edition)
Senior living communities today are nothing like they used to be. Communities today are bright, open and inviting. Most have the latest technology with everything from wifi to flat screen TVs. Apartments are larger, offering one and two bedroom suites. Today’s assisted living residents are still active, vibrant individuals that have so much to give and are very involved in their communities. They also know what their options are and expect services much different than they did a few years ago.
Assisted livings are designed to give seniors extra help with activities of daily living . These include meal services, assistance with bathing, grooming, laundry, housekeeping, dressing, and medication management. Many individuals may only need help with one or two of these activities.
Let’s take Sylvia as an example; she is a 72-year-old woman with early memory loss and some arthritis in her hands. Sylvia recently moved into an assisted living apartment. The staff supervises her medication and ensures she is taking it as prescribed by her physician, does all of her housekeeping and laundry. Sylvia no longer has to worry about the upkeep of her home or the burden of cooking or shopping for one. She has peace of mind that in the event of an emergency she has access to trained staff to meet her needs. She is now free to enjoy life again and participates in the various activities the community offers, everything from bridge, bingo and painting to outings and adventures.
With a full time Activity Director on staff the residents go to places such as the new Cowboys Stadium, Arboretum, museums, restaurants, the movies, library and so much more. Sylvia and other residents is getting the assistance she needs and is enjoying her family and friends again.
When looking for an assisted living community for yourself or a loved one, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Are they licensed by the state? What do you see and feel when you walk in? Are you greeted in a warm and friendly way? Does everyone look and sound happy? What is the condition of the building? Talk to the residents, their families and staff members. Ask to have a meal and participate in an activity. You want to feel confident in the place you will call home.
Nicol Smith is the Community Relations Coordinator for Rambling Oaks Courtyard and may be reached at 469-766-4101.
