The Available Lifestyle Options Of Senior Living West Pasco County Residents May Find Helpful

By Harold Stevens


As senior citizens advance in age, they become increasingly dependent on their family members. Meeting all their needs and keeping them comfortable usually comes at a price. Often times, one or two relatives have to quit their job or make readjustments which may have dire economic or social consequences. There are a number of arrangements of senior living West Pasco County residents need to know if they are struggling in taking care of their seniors.

Independent living is one of the commonest forms that exist. This type is recommended for individuals that are healthy and active. Such persons are able to live on their own in residences such as condos, townhouses, mobile homes or even ordinary homes. Living alongside others gives them a sense of community. In these settings, there are a number of amenities that are shared including clubhouses, gyms, security and housekeeping among others.

In assisted living, the resident is capable of living own their own but require limited help. Their home is part of a large community which makes it possible for them to interact with other seniors. Activities that usually require assistance include laundry, preparation of meals, personal mobility, physical exercise and so on. The residents are left on their own most of the time and only ask for assistance when they need it. Typically, a community is made up of 25 to 120 units.

Congregational living is where a variety of services other than medical support are provided. The range of services provided varies from home to home. The age requirements range from 55 to 65 years. All the residents must be able to take care of their personal hygiene, they should feed themselves and move around unassisted. In most homes, this group is provided with communal meals.

There are numerous other types that can be considered. A good number of them (including the Alzheimer assistance centers and Veteran homes) are designed for specific conditions and situations. CCRC (or Continuing Care Retirement Community in full) is a unique type that has features of different other types. It includes provides educational programs alongside the social supportive services.

When looking for a home, there are a number of things to consider. The home should ideally be located at a good distance from where the rest of the family lives. This will make it possible for the relatives to visit occasionally. The chosen location should be secure with an environmental that is free from loud noises or odor. If possible, you can assesses the rest of the residents and determine whether or not you or your relative will get along with them.

Although most homes have a set of activities that are designed to keep their residents busy, some allow the residents to come up with their own programs. Among the elderly, the incidence of chronic degenerative diseases and conditions such as arthritis, dementia, heart disease and hypertension is generally higher than the rest of the condition. Encourage them to involve themselves in regular physical activities such as walking, swimming, cycling and jogging.

The decision to enroll a senior relative to a home is not an easy one. In the absence of available caretakers, however, this might be the only option. There are many different types of homes offering varied services. Ensure that you compare several of them before settling on your final choice.




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