Whether it’s the house you grew up in or the place where you raised your family, most people have fond memories of where they live. This rose-tinted view helps sustain what senior living professional Jill Vitale-Aussem calls the myth that home care is the answer for everyone. In truth, people have unique needs, and only you and your loved one can decide what care path makes the best sense, physically, mentally and spiritually.
When it comes to making the decision about assisted living, it’s important to be aware of these common misconceptions:
Myth 1: Assisted Living is the End of Independence
Home care may indeed be the best way for you or your loved ones to stay independent. But are you sure you’re not confusing independence with isolation? Study after study has linked loneliness (which can affect both people living alone and couples) with depression and health issues. This is a problem that our assisted living communities are designed to resolve, allowing for the perfect balance of social interaction and “me time.”
Myth 2: Assisted Living is More Expensive
In fact, the median national costs of home care and assisted living are roughly the same. Draw up a budget based on your or your loved one’s specific needs, accounting for factors like home safety, transport, and meal preparation. Look out for hidden costs – such as family members cutting work hours so they can act as caregivers.
Myth 3: Assisted Living Communities are Institutions
This is an outdated fallacy. Many seniors have found that assisted living communities like Cappella of Pueblo West can feel like just like home, with an active “neighborhood” that helps them connect with like-minded older adults. While home care is appealing to many, think about the convenience of being able to enjoy a rich, fulfilling lifestyle with 24/7 care professionals readily available.
