Some Facts About Asssted Living Communities

Seniors who stay in assisted living communities try different activities throughout the week. Dancing, field trips, and exercise classes are ideal activities for physically fit seniors. However, residents who have problems walking spend most of their time listening to music.

Dancing

At most assisted living facilities, everyone can dance every day. The staff usually plays different music so that all seniors can enjoy various styles of dance, such

as swing dancing and ballroom dancing. Many residents enjoy dance-themed events because they get opportunities to socialize. However, the biggest benefit is that dancing keeps seniors physically fit.

Field Trips

The employees at senior communities organize various field trips to concerts, sporting events, and museums throughout the year. The seniors also take trips to parks so that they can admire the sites and sounds of nature.

Fitness Activities

Yoga and Tai Chi are common fitness options for seniors at assisted living communities. Zumba classes are also available; this fitness activity is ideal for seniors who enjoy jumping and dancing.

Entertainment

The entertainment options at senior communities vary. On some nights, residents can listen to musical performances. However, on cool summer evenings, everyone usually enjoy variety acts outdoors. Opera performances and comedy acts also occur at assisted living facilities.

Activities for Seniors with Medical Dementia

Seniors who have dementia must try activities that improve brain functions. Although dementia patients have memory problems, they can still enjoy music, shopping, art and gardening.

Benefits of Music

Music helps dementia patients relax; however, the results depend on each patient’s specific musical interests. Jazz and other kinds of music are effective because the sounds of the instruments decrease the effects of dementia by sending more oxygen to the brain.

Benefits of Shopping

At most facilities, the staff gives the residents different catalogs so that they can make a shopping list. For this task, the seniors must cut out different pictures

of certain products that they would like to buy. This activity helps patients enhance their memory skills.

Benefits of Art

Sculpting and painting are mental activities that challenge the mind. Each task also improves the connections that are made in the brain when creative ideas are

developed. Seniors who cannot hold a paint brush can still create unique art by using toxic-free finger paints.

Benefit of Gardening

Gardening is a great mental activity that is quite relaxing. Seniors who stay at assisted living facilities often plant various seeds indoors. Although some dementia patients do not remember when they planted the seeds, they still enjoy the gardening process. Beautiful flowers provide a pop of color in different rooms. Certain plants can also enhance a senior’s mood.

Bonus Advice for Families

Although assisted living facilities are highly recommended, families must understand the overall costs. Typically, a senior must pay a fee each month for rent, housekeeping, and meals. Many families choose assisted living services instead of nursing homes because of the costs. Assisted living facilities are usually 60 percent cheaper than a nursing home. Medicare does not cover assisted living costs. Most residents pay for nearly 75 percent of the costs with their own money or by getting assistance from friends or family. If cash is limited, supplemental security income is a good option. In most cases, SSI will cover 14 percent of the costs.

To learn more about assisted living options, contact the nearest organization in your local area.

The author, Leo Gomes is a well-known writer on elder living, senior housing related topics.He shares his valuable views through his articles about senior living,assisted living.