What is Assisted Living?

We went to Fran Gray, at Springwood Court in Fort Myers to get the answers. Fran has become an expert in caring for our seniors. She has been the Director of Nursing and now the Executive Director for 19 years at the lovely 26 year old community.

“Assisted living communities are an ideal housing arrangement for mostly seniors who are in a transitional stage of aging.  Often residents of assisted living centers make the change if living alone entails too much work or when help is required for daily activities but constant supervision or care isn’t necessary.  There are many assisted living benefits but the key difference between assisted living and nursing homes is the autonomy and control residents have in their day-to-day lives.” said Fran.

Allowing residents to continue acting independently is a key facet and benefit of assisted living.  However, constant care is available for any needs, be they medical, social or anything between — all more benefits of assisted living.  Apartment-style housing is common in assisted living centers for the comfort and privacy of residents, often with the added benefit of housekeeping. Most all have beautiful common areas to encourage socialization throughout the day.

According to the National Center for Assisted Living, there are now over 30,000 assisted living communities in the United States. That is up from 17,000 just twenty years ago. Nearly 1/3 of those are located in the southern region. Staff members help with regular tasks and create schedules for the residents detailing nutrition plans and social activities.  However, the activities are completely determined by residents themselves.  Other daily living functions that staff may assist with are medication assistance, bathing and dressing, while simultaneously coordinating personal needs such as shopping and communication with loved ones.

As outlined by the Assisted Living Federation of America, senior care in assisted living centers should encompass accessibility, independence, quality of life, dignity and personal choices.  The National Center for Assisted Living created guiding principles for assisted living facilities including the importance of personal care.  It says “staffs strive to meet the social, emotional, cultural, intellectual and spiritual well-being of residents.” Based on a recent survey, more than 90 percent of residents reported experiences with high quality of life, high level of care and a sense of security in the community.

Springwood Court has been doing all of that and more for over a quarter of a century. Ensuring kindness and compassion to all residents, they offer many health care and enrichment options tailored to the personal wants and needs of each individual. Seniors and/or their adult children that are considering assisted living as an option should visit Carol Schneider, the Community Liaison, to determine if the time is right and to explore the many options that they offer. There are no huge commitments, offering month to month rentals. While you are there, be sure to meet Fran, she’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

NEED A BREAK?
Respite Care May be Your Answer

For many, the many challenges of caring for a loved one, chronically ill, or disabled family member are simply a part of daily life. Caregiving, though, is a demanding, difficult job and no one is equipped to do it alone. Since your health and resilience are critical for your loved one’s welfare, it’s essential for both of you that you get appropriate help when you need it.

Taking care of an senior or ill family member can be enormously rewarding — but it can be physically and emotionally draining as well. That’s why it’s important for family caregivers to seek occasional respite from their responsibilities. Whether it’s for a few hours a week to run errands or a couple weeks a year, respite care offers you the chance reduce stress, restore energy and keep your life in balance.

Be sure to call Springwood Court to ask about their seasonal respite special. If your parent is discharging from skilled nursing and needs to get a little bit stronger for a little bit longer before returning home or you want to take a much needed-vacation with friends or family, Springwood Court might be just what you are looking for and it’s just $150 per day. That’s less than a hotel room on the beach!

Spring Wood Court
239-278-0078