What Is Assisted Living? Your Questions Answered.

Jun 4, 2024 | Assisted Living, Senior Living Resources

Are you considering assisted living for yourself or a loved one? This exciting transition can open doors to greater independence, more social connections, and newfound possibilities.

This guide empowers you or your loved one on the journey to assisted living. We’ll explore the many benefits of assisted living and provide the information you need to make informed decisions. Our goal is to help you and your family feel confident navigating the assisted living landscape and discover the exciting possibilities that await.

What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living is a supportive living environment designed to help older adults live life to the fullest. It’s a place where seniors can maintain a fulfilling level of independence while having assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, eating and more.

Residents are empowered to make their own choices while always having a friendly, caring team nearby when needed.

Who Thrives in Assisted Living?

Assisted living isn’t the same as independent living, but it’s also less intensive than around-the-clock care in skilled nursing, memory support, and rehabilitation. Here’s a snapshot of those who typically find assisted living an ideal fit:

  • Prioritize Independence: Seniors who love being as self-sufficient as possible but sometimes need a helping hand with daily routines benefit from assisted living.
  • Embracing Support: This level of care is ideal for individuals who are open to receiving the kind of discreet support that makes life easier and safer while allowing them to stay in charge.
  • Seeking Connections: Seniors who enjoy socializing long for a strong sense of community, where friendships are easily formed and there’s always something to do. Those individuals will find a vibrant social life in assisted living!

Services Included in Assisted Living

Services available in senior living communities reflect the diverse needs and preferences of the residents. For example, Palm Court, the assisted living neighborhood in Three Palms Health Center at East Ridge at Cutler Bay, offers a variety of services designed to help you or a loved one live their best life:

Services To Make Life Easier

  • Nutritious and delicious meals served in a restaurant-style dining venue
  • Light weekly housekeeping services
  • Linen and towel laundry
  • Scheduled transportation for shopping, medical appointments, and outings

Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Assistance

  • Bathing: Support with showering, bathing, or sponge baths
  • Dressing: Help with choosing clothes and getting dressed
  • Grooming: Assistance with brushing hair, oral care, shaving, and other hygiene tasks
  • Toileting: Discreet and respectful help with using the restroom and maintaining continence
  • Eating: Assistance with feeding if needed, ensuring proper nutrition
  • Transferring: Help moving from a bed to a chair, in and out of a wheelchair, or getting into a standing position

Evolving Needs, Evolving Care

At Palm Court at East Ridge at Cutler Bay, we realize individual needs can change. That’s why we offer a wide range of senior care options within our community. In addition to the core services, residents can access:

  • Nurse services
  • Medical office on-site
  • Diabetes management
  • Home health
  • Life Alert pendants
  • Podiatry, dental, and vision services
  • Primary care physician visits
  • Physical, occupational, and speech therapies
  • Vitality care coordinator
  • Monthly evaluations
  • Nursing supervision 24/7

Social and Recreational Programs in Assisted Living

Assisted living communities understand that staying active and connected is crucial for older adults. They design diverse activities calendars with a variety of options to appeal to different interests. Popular examples include:

  • Outings: Trips to local museums, cultural events, restaurants, and shopping excursions
  • Fitness Classes: Gentle exercise programs like chair yoga, walking groups, and water aerobics
  • Clubs and Interest Groups: Book clubs, gardening groups, current events discussions, and more
  • Special Events: Holiday celebrations, musical performances, guest speakers, and themed parties

Your Lifestyle, Your Way

Palm Court at East Ridge at Cutler Bay offers a lifestyle tailored to residents’ interests. A move here means more convenience, greater confidence, and endless possibilities to explore your passions. Our assisted living residents are welcome to take advantage of all the amenities offered in our vibrant Life Plan Community.

Discover a world of opportunities, including:

  • Uncovering Peace of Mind: Rest easy with 24-hour security.
  • Staying Active and Engaged: Dive into the pool, work out in the wellness center, or stroll our 76 lush acres filled with gardens, palm trees, and even peacocks!
  • Pampering Yourself: Get a fresh look at our full-service beauty salon.
  • Finding Your Community: Connect with friends in the library or take your furry companion to the dog park.

Assisted Living Floor Plans

Assisted living communities understand the importance of a comfortable, homelike space. They design a variety of floor plans to cater to individual preferences and needs. Whether you’re seeking a cozy retreat or a more spacious apartment, you’ll likely find an option that feels like a perfect fit.

Many assisted living communities offer virtual tours or floor plan examples on their websites. However, the best way to truly envision yourself in a space is to schedule an in-person visit.

Your Space, Your Way

At Palm Court, we believe your assisted living residence should reflect your style and comfort. Choose from private studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom floor plans and personalize your space to make it your own. Each residence features:

  • Kitchen or kitchenette
  • Private bath
  • All utilities and basic cable (phone not included)
  • Emergency call system

How To Pay for Assisted Living

The cost of assisted living varies among communities. While Medicare typically doesn’t cover long-term assisted living costs, there are many other ways to finance this type of care:

  • Long-Term Care Insurance: If your loved one has a long-term care insurance policy, it may cover some or all of the assisted living expenses. Policies vary, so check the benefits carefully.
  • Private Pay: Many families use personal savings, retirement funds, or proceeds from selling a home to cover assisted living costs.
  • Veterans Aid & Attendance Benefits: Veterans and their surviving spouses may be eligible for programs that help with assisted living expenses. Contact the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to explore your options.
  • State-Level Medicaid Programs: Some states offer Medicaid programs that can help with assisted living costs for those who meet income and asset requirements. These programs vary widely, so inquire with your state’s Medicaid office for details.

It’s best to consult with a financial advisor or elder law attorney who can help you create a personalized plan for covering the costs of assisted living.

Discover a Lifestyle That Supports Your Best Life at Palm Court

We understand that the transition to assisted living is both exciting and filled with questions. The Palm Court at East Ridge at Cutler Bay family is dedicated to making you or your loved one feel welcomed, comfortable, and supported every step of the way. Contact us online or call 305-290-2346 to start a conversation about how assisted living can lead to a fulfilling and enriching next chapter.

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