What to expect from a modern-day senior home

In many developed nations, senior citizens are the fastest-growing demographic. And Canada is no exception. In fact, Canadians live longer than most people in other countries [1]. But this generation of seniors is very different from the ones before them. They are healthier and work even after retiring. They are capable of living independently for longer. In 2019, seniors have more choice than ever before when it comes to lifestyle options [2].

Senior Home: Synonymous with Nursing Home

Not long ago, senior homes were nothing more than healthcare facilities. Like hospitals and other medical institutions, they mainly provided health services. That’s why families have concerns about moving their loved ones to a senior home even today. The most pressing issues are:

  1. The level of healthcare and safety provided by the senior home
  2. Mental and emotional isolation of the family member
  3. A disconnect between the senior and the outside world

But today’s seniors are demanding more from senior homes. And senior living communities are stepping up to meet, and even exceed, their expectations.

Types of Senior Living Facilities

Independent Living

For seniors who are able to live on their own, retirement communities are a good option. They offer completely private spaces such as apartments, condos or even detached homes. Many such residences use smart technology to enhance safety and deliver services. These communities also offer various amenities such as:

  • Fitness classes
  • On-site medical help
  • A clubhouse for social activities
  • Community events

Assisted Living

Assisted living is perfect for seniors who have health issues but without serious medical conditions. They provide many of the services that retirement communities offer. They also provide additional help in the form of:

  • Housekeeping services
  • Managing medication and doctor appointments
  • Provide meals in a common area
  • Assistance with everyday chores

Nursing Homes

The third option is the traditional nursing homes everyone is familiar with. They provide long-term care for seniors with severe health issues. Seniors share rooms and take meals in a common area. Usually, some social activities are available. But the emphasis is on providing skilled nursing care.

 

What Services Can You Expect?

The modern senior home looks very different from the traditional nursing facility. These communities offer a range of services that address the main concerns of family members and senior themselves.

Life Safety Technologies

You would be hard-pressed to find a senior home that does not use technology to help ensure safety. From sensors to wearable devices, smart healthcare is here to stay. Most senior homes invest in integrated systems, panic buttons/pull cords, reminder alerts, etc. 

Such technologies allow seniors to live independently even as they grow older. As a senior, you continue to live on your own. But help is available in an instant if need be. It combines the best of independent living with access to necessary services. 

On-Site Medical Help

This is pretty much a given in any type of senior facility. A retirement community may have medical personnel on standby. Some even have in-house nursing aides for their residents. Depending on the level of care needed for their residents, these communities offer:

  • Transportation for doctor appointments
  • Medication reminder alerts
  • In-house therapists
  • Fitness instructors

Community Engagement Services

This is perhaps the most important differentiating factor for today’s senior communities. They offer a wide variety of activities and outings for their residents. Activities can include hobby classes, presentations, fitness classes, yoga sessions, and so much more. Often, they celebrate holidays and major events. They also arrange for trips to local attractions, parks, restaurants, etc.

These community engagement services offer several benefits. They allow seniors the opportunities to engage with others in their age group. They can meet like-minded neighbors and fellow seniors at community events. Social interaction also helps relieve mental health issues and prevent seniors from feeling isolated.

Some communities even offer educational opportunities. Residents can attend classes at the local university or attend seminars on site. This gives seniors a chance to learn new things and sharpen their mental faculties. Given that many seniors work even after 60, continuing education is a top priority.

Building Wide Wi-Fi

There was a time when providing Wi-Fi in a senior home would be laughed at. People simply assume that seniors are afraid of technology. Some also think seniors are afraid of using smart devices. The reality is far different. 

Seniors love to use technology to keep in touch with loved ones. Older citizens are just as enamored of FaceTime and Facebook as their grandchildren. After all, these services allow them to attend family events (graduation, birthday parties) even when they are separated by distance.

A modern-day senior home provides more than just healthcare. These communities offer a custom environment for older citizens. With personalized services and tailor-made living spaces, moving to a retirement community is seen as an upgrade!

 

 

Sources:

  1. https://www.aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/canada-seniors-housing-guide
  2. https://www.aging.com/senior-citizen-homes-the-modern-day-options-for-senior-living/