If you have an elderly relative, you might already be aware of the worries, stresses, and sadness that can sometimes be experienced when watching a loved one age. Although people age in different ways and in different cycles, many older adults eventually lose control of their previously working faculties, developing problems with eyesight, hearing, memory, and even mobility issues.
Trying to take care of an older person and deal with these issues takes experience, patience, and skills that are often far beyond the scope of most untrained people. Moreover, if you’re working, it’s likely you won’t have the time to take on the role of dedicated carer adequately. With this in mind, looking at assisted living might be the solution both you and your elderly loved one need.
What is assisted living, and why could it be the answer you’re looking for?
Assisted living is often compared to a kind of halfway-house between an older adult living in their own home and moving to the full-time, dedicated care of a nursing home. In assisted living premises such as this retirement community Barlett, Illinois has in operation, residents join a community of similarly-minded, similarly-aged individuals. However, they still have the freedom to retain much of the independence they would have had if they were living at home.
Perhaps more importantly, however, assisted living offers support when it’s needed with trained staff available 24/7 that can help in the event of any problem. Plus, staff also assist with general day-to-day tasks that might be beyond the abilities of the residents.
A few of the benefits of assisted living

Assisted living brings considerable benefits to the residents living within these establishments, including (but not limited to) the following:
1. Controlled medication
Elderly people often forget to take their medication or have problems doing so properly. With assisted care, their medication will be monitored with help provided as required.
2. Assistance when it’s needed
As people age, some daily, simple tasks can become beyond their abilities, which can prove a particular problem, especially if they’re living alone. With assisted living, the staff is on-hand 24/7 to help.
3. Good nutrition
A healthy diet is important at all stages in life but perhaps even more so as people age. However, often, the tasks of shopping, cooking, or even eating can become a challenge in old age. In an assisted living center, you can be sure your loved one is eating healthy 24/7/365.
4. Management of chronic illnesses
Chronic illnesses can be difficult for the elderly to deal with (for example, diabetes). In the assisted living setup, a carer will ensure the proper and regular administration of any required prescriptions.
5. A sense of belonging, community, and a chance to meet friends
Older adults often find themselves isolated – perhaps after the death of a spouse or through mobility problems and difficulties leaving the house. By moving to an assisted living center, your relative will automatically join a group of similar people and have a chance to share experiences, meet new friends and make bonds. It gives the perfect mix of community while still allowing independence.
Also read: 8 Reasons Why You Should Think Twice Before Moving Into a Retirement Community