How Assisted Living Has Changed Through The Years

How Assisted Living Has Changed Through The Years

Choosing to move your loved one to an assisted living facility is not an easy decision to make. Additionally, selecting what options are available can be quite overwhelming for both the senior and his/her family. The strain of planning an immediate and appropriate living arrangement due to the declining health of their loved ones may also make it difficult for them. However, knowing what services assisted living facilities offer to its residents can make everything more simple for both parties.

Assisted living facilities have become a safe heaven for seniors. It gives them a chance to improve their quality of life. An assisted living facility allows them to interact with other residents, make new friends, and widen their social circle by participating in different activities that are offered by the facility. This holds true for very older adults who have previously been confined within the comforts of their homes due to some physical and cognitive difficulties. Moreover, the medication management services that are also offered by the facilities are extremely helpful for seniors since they are able to take their medications on time every day.

It is important to understand, though, that not all assisted living facilities are created equally. Visiting the facilities personally may help you know whether or not it is a good place for your loved one to transfer to considering the level of care they need and their preferences. While it’s important to know the services that are offered by the facility, there are also other factors you need to consider. These factors include the staff’s expertise in the field especially if your loved one is diagnosed with early dementia or Alzheimer’s. It is also important to consider the emotional support that will be given to your loved one.

Assisted living facilities are constantly changing through the years. Through research and evaluations, assisted living facilities may be able to keep up with the latest trends and improve the services they offer to their clientele.

How Assisted Living Has Evolved

More states have established regulations that aim for a better, cleaner, and more trained personnel to handle residents in an assisted living facility. As a result, the decision of moving their loved ones into senior care communities became easier for them.

The luxury type of assisted living is popular among seniors and their families these days. It’s especially attractive to them since their loved ones could enjoy living in a facility that closely resembles a classy resort.

There are a lot of amenities and services that seniors could enjoy in assisted living facilities including:

  • Wellness programs and exercises that are designed to cater the needs of your loved one
  • Food preparation
  • Barber and beautician services
  • Housekeeping services
  • Laundry Services
  • Transportation services
  • Recreational activities
  • Social events
  • Physical and occupational therapy
  • Support group or discussion groups

Most of what is listed are included in the basic services that are offered by facilities. Before making a decision, be sure to consult your loved one regarding their preferences. If they want to avail of any additional services aside from the basic ones, it’s important to know that additional costs may apply.

What Assisted Living Facilities Looks Like Today

The type of assisted living facilities today usually varies depending on the senior living professionals in each community. Most facilities today provide a condominium type of living where residents may be able to choose to receive care discreetly in accordance with their preferred time or schedule.

Residents in the assisted living facilities are encouraged to join the activities but are not forced to participate. The seniors living in an assisted living facility may have different schedules and they are free to do as they like so long as it’s safe for them.

Day to Day Care

The major role of assisted living is to provide an extra helping hand to seniors who need assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). Therefore, if your loved one is still capable of doing everyday activities with little help, assisted living facilities may be the best choice for them. The personnel at an assisted living facility are trained to aid seniors with:

  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Eating
  • Mobility
  • Using the toilet
  • Grooming

The staff in Assisted living facilities may also offer assistance to your loved one when it comes to instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) including:

  • Managing finances
  • Meal preparation
  • Transportation
  • Shopping
  • Using a phone
  • Household chores

However, the family may also have the option of handling the IADLs for the seniors. Every assisted living facility have their own structure regarding these situations and you may be able to set up an arrangement that would work best for you and your elderly loved one.

It is also vital for the seniors to have a connection with the facility’s staff since they will be depending mostly on them in doing most of the basic daily activities, may it be dressing, helping them shower, or helping them prepare their meals. On the other hand, the care providers should also make an effort in connecting with the senior residents since they will become a big part of the senior resident’s life.

How Important is the Ongoing Staff Training?

It’s understandable that you might have doubts relying on someone to tend to the needs of your elderly loved one, especially if you don’t know that person. In order to remedy that, assisted living facilities have provided programs and emotion-based care training for their caregivers to ensure the families of their residents that the needs of their elderly loved one are under the care of highly skilled care professionals.

In the process of finding the right professionals for the job, the applicants need to undergo a comprehensive hiring process. The supervisor should be able to monitor and demonstrate great care to the newly hired staff every now and then. They should also be able to provide on-going training to ensure that their skills will be further developed to provide an even greater service to the residents.

The Importance of Connecting Emotionally with Staff

It’s a known fact that the family of the senior residents would want the staff to treat their elderly loved one as a part of their family. Since the staff plays a big role in the lives of the senior residents, a lot of seniors would want the staff to share personal stories in order for both parties to know each other on a deeper level. This way, a connection between the staff and the senior would be established.

The level of interaction between staff and residents is one of the biggest factors that families consider in choosing the right assisted living facility for their elderly loved one. Emotional connections are important since it shows that the community is surrounded by a supportive environment and at the same time a caring and loving staff.

With the number of assisted living care facilities all over the country today, it isn’t exactly wrong to say that each facility differs from the other in some ways. Looking into the amenities and services each facility offers is vital in choosing the best senior care community for your loved one. .

9 Tips on Selecting the Best Assisted Living Facility

9 Tips on Selecting the Best Assisted Living Facility

With over 28,000 assisted living facilities in the United States, choosing the best assisted-living facility for your elderly loved one can be a little overwhelming. There are so many factors to consider because it’s very similar to choosing a new home.

How can you possibly choose a new living space with just a few visits? Easy – you need to ask a lot of questions. We’ve rounded up nine tips on what to ask the staff and what factors to look out for so you’ll know which assisted living facility is the best for your loved one.

1.  Ask the staff how long they’ve been working for the facility.

High caregiver turnover is a common problem among assisted living facilities. However, one of the factors in distinguishing the ‘best’ ALF is that there is a high retention of staff workers. This usually means that the management treats their staff well that it translates to their performance. If the caregiver is happy and if he/she enjoys what he/she does, then you’re sure that your elderly loved one will be well taken care of.

2.  Talk to the caregivers

The backbone of the facility is not the owner, nor is it the residents. In fact, the backbone of every assisted living facility are the caregivers. Aside from taking good care of the senior residents and attending to their needs, caregivers set the tone and the mood of the facility.

Sure, getting to know the owners and managers of every ALF you consider is important, but establishing a relationship with the caregivers are a must. After all, they’re the ones your loved one is interacting to the most. Getting to know them gives you a hint of how the facility treats their staff.

3.  Talk to a resident

During your visit, don’t forget to talk to the residents because some visitors can sometimes feel shy or uncomfortable reaching out to residents. This may seem obvious but if residents seem happy and enthusiastic to talk about their new home then chances are, they love it there. If you think a lot of the residents seem unhappy or uncomfortable then it’s a serious red flag.

The type of residents that reside in the facility speaks volumes regarding the quality of the environment your elderly loved one may soon move into. You’d be surprised how much you’ll inside scoop you get just by talking to the senior residents. If you’re unsure where to start, find a common ground between the both of you and work from there.

4.  Sniff, sniff – Observe the Cleanliness

The first time you step into the facility, you’ll notice whether it feels fresh and clean. But don’t forget to look past the overall atmosphere. Look into the corners, the rooms, the baseboards, windows, and the kitchen. Make sure to ask how often the facility is cleaned and if housekeeping is provided in the resident’s personal living quarters. It usually is but it never hurts to ask. Also ask about types of maintenance offered, as well as the laundry procedures – along with the additional costs that come with these services.

If you notice bad odors in the property, this can be a strong indication of a (temporary or not) problem with cleanliness. If the odor comes from one specific place, then it might’ve been a recent incident, nothing a good cleaning couldn’t fix. However, if the odor can be smelled throughout the whole community, then this indicates a bigger problem. Feel free to ask the manager about it.

5.  Ask about fees.

One of the most important factors in choosing the best ALF is the affordability. Knowing the fees associated with every facility you consider will help speed up the decision process and also helps the family make a sound decision.

It’s also important to ask how and when they compute monthly rates for care fees. Being upfront about this issue is a great help in avoiding unnecessary problems in the future, and therefore leading to a happier stay in the assisted living facility.

6.  Checkout the visitor bathroom.

We’ve already established that we should keep an eye on the level of cleanliness in all parts of a facility. While we’re sure that the common areas of the home would be spotless, visitor bathrooms are sometimes left untaken cared of. If a facility can’t keep visitor bathrooms clean, then think about the residents’ own bathrooms.

7.  Arrive early.

Arriving early gives you a chance to ask questions, talk to other people, and check out the visitor bathroom. And not only that, it gives you a better picture of the facility as a whole. Think about it, during a scheduled tour, the facility will most likely put their best foot forward. However, being there ahead of time shows you the true colors of an assisted living facility.

8.  Ask feedback from residents and their families.

A senior resident’s family will have a lot to say about the assisted living facility, so be sure to ask past or present residents and families of their opinion. Assisted living communities usually have a resident council that will be more than happy to answer all your burning questions. If you don’t have time to personally approach them, you can message them online or read various reviews on the facility.

9.  Go with your gut.

While touring potential assisted living facilities, don’t ever forget to picture your loved one actually living in the facilities. Does your loved one seem comfortable? Do you feel at ease knowing you’ll hand over your loved one to them? Are the residents, along with the staff, friendly, inviting, and warm? Trust your gut no matter what.

We’re well aware that touring different assisted living facilities and making life-changing decisions for your elderly loved one can be taxing. Don’t forget to ask your loved one’s opinion. After all, they’ll be the ones who transition to a new chapter in their lives. If you’re still looking for an ALF, don’t lose hope! You’re sure to find the perfect ALF for your loved one – you just have to know what you’!

 

4 Crucial Factors When It Comes to Senior’s Level of Care

4 Crucial Factors When It Comes to Senior’s Level of Care

There is nothing you can do to stop your loved one from getting old. That is why you need to understand that time will come when your loved one will eventually need to be transferred into a care home where he/she can get the level of care that he/she needs. This may be a stressful event for both your family and your elderly loved one but when you have had an ample time to make the necessary preparations, the transition will surely go smoothly.

Care homes offer different levels of care such as directed care, personal care, and supervisory care to their residents. When you are looking for a care home for your elderly loved one, you should be able to take some things into consideration. These include:

1. Current Health Issues and the Level of Care that is Needed

This is essentially the main consideration in choosing the best facility for your loved one. If you’re you are the one who’s primarily taking care of your senior loved one, then you may have a better idea on which home to choose. If that’s not the case, then you may want to consult with your loved one’s physician. Be sure to take note of the physician’s advice so that you can transfer your loved one to a home that guarantees optimal care your loved one needs.

2. Independence

For this matter, you may need to reassess your loved one’s situation. Evaluating your loved one from a standpoint can help you determine what type of care they should get. Examine your loved one’s activities from afar. Supposing that their caregiver isn’t around to help them with the basic everyday task, will they be able to carry out their everyday routines with little to no assistance? Answering these questions will help you take a good look at where your loved one stands with respect to the level of assistance they need. Asking your loved one’s caregivers can help you with these matters, too.

3. Special Non-medical Considerations

Needs that aren’t medically-related are also important and should be given attention to. These needs could help determine the level of independence of your loved one. Maybe they are still fully capable of walking without assistance but may have some difficulty climbing the stairs or they may enjoy some peace and quiet alone and may become frustrated in a crowded place. Other special considerations such as diet need to be considered as well. Although they may seem like a small matter, for your loved one, it can have a significant effect.

4. The Closeness of the Care Home

If you’re close to your elderly loved one and would love to visit them at least a couple of times a week, then you need to consider choosing a care home that’s close to your house as possible with visiting hours that is suitable for you. Your visits to your loved one could also become regular which is why it’s more convenient to choose a place with a close proximity.

Taking time to examine these factors would be really helpful in choosing a care home that’s suitable for your elderly loved one. Visiting potential homes in person enable you and your loved one to get a first-hand feel of the home, rather than relying on pictures, word of mouth, or ads. Since you get to see what it’s like in person, it’s easier for you and your loved one to make the choice. It is also a huge factor in determining whether the home can meet the level of care a senior needs.

 

August Events for Seniors in Phoenix-Scottsdale

Happy August! We hope you’re having the best summer 🙂 There are so many events going on in the area and we wanted to share them all with you! Take a look at this list and let us know if there are any you plan to attend:

Recognize National Girlfriends Day with “A Cup of Memories”
When: August 1, 2018 at 8:30 AM
Where: Marcos de Niza Senior Center – 305 W. Pima St. Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2748

AARP Safe Driving
When: August 1, 2018 at 10:15 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Men Who Care Support Group
When: August 1, 2018 at 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Where: Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, 901 E. Willetta Street, Phoenix

COMPASS: After the Dementia Diagnosis
When: August 1, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Where: Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, 901 E. Willetta Street, Phoenix

*National Coloring Book Day*
When: August 2, 2018
Where: Desert West Senior Center – 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

JCC Memory Cafe
When: August 2, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Where: Beth El Congregation, 1118 W. Glendale Ave. in Phoenix

Nutrition Class
When: August 2, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-4332

Root Beer Float Day
When: August 3, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-4332

Wacky Day
When: August 2, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Marcos de Niza Senior Center – 305 W. Pima St. Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2748

Planting Microgreens
When: August 2, 2018 at 9:00 AM
Where: South Mountain Senior Center – 212 E. Alta Vista Road Phoenix, Arizona 85042-4219

Lewy Body (LBD) Support Group
When: August 3, 2018 at 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Where: Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, 901 E. Willetta Street, Phoenix

Q&A INFORMATIONAL W/SIGNATURE
When: August 3, 2018 at 9:00 AM
Where: Helen Drake Senior Center – 7600 N 27th Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85051-6602

Birthday Celebration
When: August 3, 2018 at 10:30 AM
Where: Chinese Senior Center – 734 W. Elm St. Phoenix, Arizona 85013-2416

Art All Around Us
When: August 6, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Wiggle your Toes with a Root Beer Float
When: August 6, 2018 at 12:30 PM
Where: Marcos de Niza Senior Center – 305 W. Pima St. Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2748

Doo-Wop Bop Hop Ice Cream Shake Up
When: August 6, 2018 at 12:30 PM
Where: ​​​Pecos Senior Center 17010 S. 48th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85048-1201

Birthday Cake
When: August 6, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: McDowell Place Senior Center – 1845 E. McDowell Road Phoenix, Arizona 85006-3052

PERSONALITY PROFILES
When: August 6, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: ​Sunnyslope Senior Center – 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-213

Living with Diabetes
When: August 6, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Where: Senior Opportunities West Senior Center – 1220 S. 7th Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85007-3612

Talk: Know the 10 Signs
When: August 6, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Desert West Senior Center – 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

Life Transitions Support Group
When: August 7, 2018 at 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Where: Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, 901 E. Willetta Street, Phoenix

Purple Heart Day “Who, Why, When”
When: August 7, 2018 at 11:00 AM
Where: Marcos de Niza Senior Center – 305 W. Pima St. Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2748

Sun Sounds of Arizona Hearing Presentation
When: August 7, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-4332

HEALTHY BINGO
When: August 7, 2018 at 10:30 AM
Where: Helen Drake Senior Center – 7600 N 27th Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85051-6602

Healthy Eating
When: August 7, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Paradise Valley Senior Center – 17402 N. 40th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-2200

General Health Presentation
When: August 8, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-4332

Pecos Downs
When: August 8, 2018 at 12:30 PM
Where: ​​​Pecos Senior Center 17010 S. 48th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85048-1201

Communication: Avoiding Arguments and Behaviors: Expressing What Words Cannot
When: August 8, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Where: Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, 901 E. Willetta Street, Phoenix

The Dog Days of Summer: Filling the Day with Meaning
When: August 8, 2018 at 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Where: Tempe Public Library, 3500 S. Rural Road, Tempe

FUN PRIZE BINGO
When: August 8, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Devonshire Senior Center – 2802 E. Devonshire Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85016-8505

‘Headaches Decoded’
When: August 8, 2018 at 10:15 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Show us your talent!
When: August 8, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Desert West Senior Center – 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

Birthday Party
When: August 8, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Helen Drake Senior Center – 7600 N 27th Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85051-6602

Day at the Races!
When: August 8, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: ​Sunnyslope Senior Center – 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-213

Medicare BINGO by United Health Care
When: August 9, 2018 at 11:00 AM
Where: Marcos de Niza Senior Center – 305 W. Pima St. Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2748

Summer Fashion Show
When: August 9, 2018 at 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-4332

Rummage Sale
When: August 9, 2018 at 8:30 AM
Where: Desert West Senior Center – 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

Herberger Theater
When: August 9, 2018 at 11:00 AM
Where: Goelet A.C. Beuf Senior Center – 3435 W. Pinnacle Peak Road Phoenix, Arizona 85027-1021

Ice Cream Social
When: August 10, 2018 at 12::30 PM
Where: Goelet A.C. Beuf Senior Center – 3435 W. Pinnacle Peak Road Phoenix, Arizona 85027-1021

PArt All Around Us
When: August 10, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: ​​​Pecos Senior Center 17010 S. 48th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85048-1201

FARM FRESH BINGO
When: August 10, 2018 at 10:30 AM
Where: Helen Drake Senior Center – 7600 N 27th Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85051-6602

Talent Show
When: August 10, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Marcos de Niza Senior Center – 305 W. Pima St. Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2748

Ice Cream Social
When: August 10, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Desert West Senior Center – 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

Red Devil Pizza
When: August 10, 2018 at 11:30 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Medicare Card Presentation
When: August 13, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-4332

Drum Circle
When: August 13, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: South Mountain Senior Center – 212 E. Alta Vista Road Phoenix, Arizona 85042-4219

Talk: Hospice Promise
When: August 13, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Desert West Senior Center – 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

PROTECT YOUR IDENTITY
When: August 13, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: ​Sunnyslope Senior Center – 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-213

United Healthcare Presents: Help Paying Medicare Costs
When: August 13, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: Pecos Senior Center – 17010 S. 48th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85048-1201

Memory Boxes
When: August 14, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: South Mountain Senior Center – 212 E. Alta Vista Road Phoenix, Arizona 85042-4219

Loteria
When: August 14, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Desert West Senior Center – 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

Herberger Theater
When: August 14, 2018 at 11:00 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Protect Your Identity Presentation
When: August 14, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-4332+

Talent Show
When: August 14, 2018 at 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Where: Chinese Senior Center – 734 W. Elm St. Phoenix, Arizona 85013-2416

Senior Topics
When: August 14, 2018 at 10:30 AM
Where: Paradise Valley Senior Center – 17402 N. 40th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-2200

Frontotemporal (FTD) Support Group
When: August 14, 2018 at 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Where: Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, 901 E. Willetta Street, Phoenix

Financial Literacy and Education Series
When: August 14, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-4332

Watermelon Eating Contest
When: August 14, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: McDowell Place Senior Center – 1845 E. McDowell Road Phoenix, Arizona 85006-3052

Chinese Literature
When: August 14, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Chinese Senior Center – 734 W. Elm St. Phoenix, Arizona 85013-2416

Natural Health Intrusion Presentation
When: August 15, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-4332

Americare – Fall Prevention
When: August 15, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Senior Opportunities West Senior Center – 1220 S. 7th Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85007-3612

Birthday Party
When: August 16, 2018 at 9:30 AM
Where: Senior Opportunities West Senior Center – 1220 S. 7th Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85007-3612

You Got Jokes?
When: August 16, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-4332

Brain Games
When: August 16, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: South Mountain Senior Center – 212 E. Alta Vista Road Phoenix, Arizona 85042-4219

Eat This Not That Healthy Eating Presentation
When: August 17, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-4332

Birthday Party
When: August 17, 2018 at 9::30 AM
Where: Goelet A.C. Beuf Senior Center – 3435 W. Pinnacle Peak Road Phoenix, Arizona 85027-1021

Indoor Picnic & 4 on 4 Chair Volleyball Tournament
When: August 17, 2018 at 08:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center – 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

End of Summer Luau 10 a.m. to
When: August 17, 2018 at 10:00 AM – Noon
Where: Paradise Valley Senior Center – 17402 N. 40th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-2200

Hawaiian Luau
When: August 17, 2018 at 9:30 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Dementia Dialogues: Eyes, Ears, Nose and Throat
When: August 15, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Where: Online

‘Estate Planning’
When: August 15, 2018 at 10:15 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

“Blood Pressure” by Maricopa County
When: August 16, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Marcos de Niza Senior Center – 305 W. Pima St. Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2748

Chipotle Fundraiser
When: August 16, 2018 at 10:45 AM – 10 PM

Desert Lawn Care
When: August 16, 2018 at 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center – 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

Cooking Nutrition
When: August 16, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: McDowell Place Senior Center – 1845 E. McDowell Road Phoenix, Arizona 85006-3052

Healthy Nutrition Demo with Clara
When: August 16, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Support Group for people with Parkinson’s and their Care Partners
When: August 17, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: Banner Sun Health Research Institute, 10515 W. Santa Fe Drive, Sun City, AZ

Luau
When: August 17, 2018 at 9:30 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Watermelon Eating Contest
When: August 17, 2018 at 9:30 AM
Where: South Mountain Senior Center – 212 E. Alta Vista Road Phoenix, Arizona 85042-4219

Chip in Fore Alzheimer’s
When: August 18, 2018 at 7:30 AM – 2 PM
Where: Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass 5692 W North Loop Rd, Chandler, Arizona 85226

Birthday Party
When: August 18, 2018 at 09:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center – 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

Medicare Assistance
When: August 20, 2018 at 9:30 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Talk: Healthy Living
When: August 20, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Desert West Senior Center – 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

National Radio Day “Let’s Talk”
When: August 20, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Marcos de Niza Senior Center – 305 W. Pima St. Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2748

MAKING YOUR HOME SAFE
When: August 20, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: ​Sunnyslope Senior Center – 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-213

Talk: Healthy BINGO
When: August 21, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Desert West Senior Center – 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

National Citizens Senior Day with Allwell (Entertainment)
When: August 21, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Marcos de Niza Senior Center – 305 W. Pima St. Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2748

Artsy Smartsy
When: August 21, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-433

Senior Topics
When: August 21, 2018 at 10:30 AM
Where: Paradise Valley Senior Center – 17402 N. 40th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-2200

Senior Day Celebration
When: August 21, 2018 at 9:00 AM
Where: McDowell Place Senior Center – 1845 E. McDowell Road Phoenix, Arizona 85006-3052

Masters of Aging (Magazine Scavenger Hunt)
When: August 21, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Pecos Senior Center – 17010 S. 48th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85048-1201

Science with Seniors
When: August 21, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: South Mountain Senior Center – 212 E. Alta Vista Road Phoenix, Arizona 85042-4219

Advisory Board
When: August 22, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Anna’s Let’s Talk “Benefits of having A pet”
When: August 22, 2018 at 11:00 AM
Where: Goelet A.C. Beuf Senior Center – 3435 W. Pinnacle Peak Road Phoenix, Arizona 85027-1021

Exercise Made Fun
When: August 22, 2018 at 10:15 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Birthday Celebration
When: August 22, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-433

Planning Ahead for Caregivers
When: August 22, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, 901 E. Willetta Street, Phoenix

East Valley Caregiver Support Group
When: August 22, 2018 at 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Where: Mesa Red Mountain Library, 635 N. Power Road, Mesa

Medicare Basics
When: August 22, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Devonshire Senior Center – 2802 E. Devonshire Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85016-8505

Luau Party
When: August 22, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Helen Drake Senior Center – 7600 N 27th Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85051-6602

Luau
When: August 22, 2018 at 1:00 PM
Where: South Mountain Senior Center – 212 E. Alta Vista Road Phoenix, Arizona 85042-4219

Healthy Eating
When: August 22, 2018 at 12:30 PM
Where: Marcos de Niza Senior Center – 305 W. Pima St. Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2748

CareToU ( Skin Cancer )
When: August 23, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: McDowell Place Senior Center – 1845 E. McDowell Road Phoenix, Arizona 85006-3052

Olive Garden
When: August 23, 2018 at 11:30 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Crisis Response Presentation by Network
When: August 23, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Marcos de Niza Senior Center – 305 W. Pima St. Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2748

Food Demonstration
When: August 23, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: South Mountain Senior Center – 212 E. Alta Vista Road Phoenix, Arizona 85042-4219

A “Forget Me Not!” Evening
When: August 23, 2018 at 5 PM – 8 PM
Where: Sedona Winds Retirement 405 Jacks Canyon Rd, Sedona, Arizona 86351

National Sandwich Day
When: August 23, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-433

Walker Fitness Presentation
When: August 23, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-433

What’s the Scoop “Ice Cream Social” “Sponsored by United Health”
When: August 24, 2018 at 12:30 PM
Where: Marcos de Niza Senior Center – 305 W. Pima St. Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2748

Beuf Luau
When: August 24, 2018 at 10:00 AM – Noon
Where: Goelet A.C. Beuf Senior Center – 3435 W. Pinnacle Peak Road Phoenix, Arizona 85027-1021

Pets on Wheels Animal Therapy
When: August 24, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-433

Birthday Party
When: August 24, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Desert West Senior Center – 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

Friendship Day Celebration
When: August 24, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Senior Opportunities West Senior Center – 1220 S. 7th Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85007-3612

Birthday Party
When: August 24, 2018 at 12:30 PM
Where: Pecos Senior Center – 17010 S. 48th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85048-1201

SOW Friendship Day!
When: August 24, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Senior Opportunities West Senior Center – 1220 S. 7th Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85007-3612

Free Pancake Breakfast
When: August 25, 2018 at 8 AM – 10 AM
Where: Parkland Memory Care, Chandler AZ

National Dog Appreciation Day
When: August 27, 2018
Where: Desert West Senior Center – 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

Creative Aging Forgiveness Day
When: August 27, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Marcos de Niza Senior Center – 305 W. Pima St. Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2748

National Dog Appreciation Day
When: August 27, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Pecos Senior Center – 17010 S. 48th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85048-1201

Pet Therapy
When: August 20, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: ​Sunnyslope Senior Center – 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-213

Loteria
When: August 28, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Desert West Senior Center – 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

Adult Child Support Group
When: August 28, 2018 at 5:15 PM – 7:15 PM
Where: Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, 901 E. Willetta Street, Phoenix

Cooking Demonstration
When: August 28, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Chinese Senior Center – 734 W. Elm St. Phoenix, Arizona 85013-2416

Know the 10 Signs
When: August 28, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center – 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

Banner Brain Health Program
When: August 29, 2018 at 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: Cahill Senior Center, 715 W. Fifth Street, Tempe

‘Scams / ID Theft’
When: August 29, 2018 at 10:15 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Birthday Party
When: August 30, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Art With Christy
When: August 30, 2018 at 1:00 PM
Where: South Mountain Senior Center – 212 E. Alta Vista Road Phoenix, Arizona 85042-4219

Labor Day Celebration
When: August 30, 2018 at 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-433

Book Club
When: August 30, 2018 at 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center – 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

Healthy Eating
When: August 30, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Pecos Senior Center – 17010 S. 48th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85048-1201

Helen Drake “Special Surprise Event” at Marcos
When: August 30, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Marcos de Niza Senior Center – 305 W. Pima St. Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2748

Labor Day Celebration with Adam Diaz
When: August 30, 2018 at 9:00 AM
Where: Desert West Senior Center – 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

Ice Cream Social
When: August 31, 2018 at 12:30 PM
Where: McDowell Place Senior Center – 1845 E. McDowell Road Phoenix, Arizona 85006-3052

Labor Day “Indoor” Picnic
When: August 31, 2018 at 09:00 AM
Where: ​​​Pecos Senior Center 17010 S. 48th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85048-1201

Ongoing Events:

Memory Cafe at Tempe Public Library
When: Every Mondays (except August 20, 2018) at 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: Tempe Public Library, 3500 S. Rural Road, Tempe

With Art in MInd
When: Every Tuesdays at 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Where: Phoenix Center for the Arts, 1202 N 3rd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004

Coffee Talk for People with Parkinson’s and their Care Partners
When: Every Fridays (except August 17, 2018) at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: Banner Sun Health Research Institute, 10515 W. Santa Fe Drive, Sun City, AZ

Parkinson’s Disease Support Group
When: August 2 & 15, 2018 at 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: Banner Sun Health Research Institute, 10515 W. Santa Fe Drive, Sun City, AZ

Early Stage Dementia and Care Partner Support Group
When: August 3 & 17, 2018 at 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Where: Banner Sun Health Research Institute, 10515 W. Santa Fe Drive, Sun City, AZ

Wii Bowling Tournament
When: Every Mondays at 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-4332

Fun Bingo
When: August 10 & 21, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: ​Adam Diaz Senior Center – 4115 W. Thomas Road Phoenix, Arizona 85019-4332

Cantonese Singing Group
When: 10:00 AM Mondays and Fridays
Where: Chinese Senior Center 734 W. Elm St. Phoenix, Arizona 85013-2416

Mandarin Singing Group
When: 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM every Wednesdays
Where: Chinese Senior Center 734 W. Elm St. Phoenix, Arizona 85013-2416

Modelling Class
When: Every Friday at 9:00 AM
Where: Chinese Senior Center 734 W. Elm St. Phoenix, Arizona 85013-2416

Chinese Citizenship Classes
When: Every Tuesdays at 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Where: Chinese Senior Center 734 W. Elm St. Phoenix, Arizona 85013-2416

English Citizenship Classes
When: Every Wednesdays at 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Where: Chinese Senior Center 734 W. Elm St. Phoenix, Arizona 85013-2416

Alzheimer’s Support
When: August 1 & 15,, 2018 at 4:00 PM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Caseworker
When: August 13 & 27, 2018 at 8:30 AM
Where: Deer Valley Senior Center – 2001 W. Wahalla Lane Phoenix, Arizona 85027-4200

Sit & Fit
When: August 1, 15 & 29, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Desert West Senior Center 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

Aromatherapy Class
When: August 9, 16, & 23, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Desert West Senior Center 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

Arts & Crafts with Christy
When: August 7 at 9:00 AM & 22 at 12:30 PM
Where: Desert West Senior Center – 6501 W. Virginia Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85035-1500

Friends Week 2018
When: August 20, 22 & 24, 2018 at 10:00 AM
Where: Devonshire Senior Center – 2802 E. Devonshire Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85016-8505

Nutrition Expedition
When: August 9 & 23, 2018 at 9:30 AM
Where: Devonshire Senior Center – 2802 E. Devonshire Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85016-8505

Mental Health First Aid
When: August 9 & 16, 2018 at 1:00 PM
Where: Devonshire Senior Center – 2802 E. Devonshire Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85016-8505

AARP© SAFETY DRIVING
When: Fourth Monday of Every Month at 8:00 AM
Where: Helen Drake Senior Center – 7600 N 27th Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85051-6602

Rummage Sale
When: August 14 & 15, 2018 at 9:00 AM
Where: Marcos de Niza Senior Center – 305 W. Pima St. Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2748

Arts with Christy
When: August 8 & 22, 2018 at 8:30 AM
Where: McDowell Place Senior Center – 1845 E. McDowell Road Phoenix, Arizona 85006-3052

Bingo
When: Every Tuesdays and Thursdays at 12:30 PM to 02:00 PM
Where: McDowell Place Senior Center – 1845 E. McDowell Road Phoenix, Arizona 85006-3052

Bingo
When: Every Tuesdays and Thursdays at 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Where: ​​​Paradise Valley Senior Center – 17402 N. 40th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-2200

Bingo
When: Every Fridays at 10:00 AM
Where: ​​​Pecos Senior Center 17010 S. 48th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85048-1201

Apples of Gold
When: August 20 – 24, 2018
Where: ​​​Pecos Senior Center 17010 S. 48th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85048-1201

Health Services Advisory Group Class (DEEP)
When: Every Fridays (except August 24, 2018 at 1:00 PM
Where: ​​​Pecos Senior Center 17010 S. 48th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85048-1201

Beginning Tai Chi/Qigong
When: Tuesdays, July 17 to Sept. 11 (except Aug 14, 2018) at 3 to 4 p.m.
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

Beginning Tai Chi
When: Thursdays, July 19 to Sept. 13 (except Aug 16, 2018) at 3 to 4 p.m.
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

Intermediate Tai Chi
When: Tuesdays, July 17 to Sept. 11 (except Aug 14, 2018) at 9 to 10 a.m.
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

Low-Impact Aerobics
When: Tuesdays (1:30 to 2:30 p.m.) and Thursdays (12:30 to 1:30 p.m.) July 17 to Sept. 13 (except Aug. 14, 2018)
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

30 Minute Chair Yoga
When: Wednesdays (12:30 to 1 p.m.) July 18 to Sept. 12 (except Aug. 16, 2018)
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

Chair and Standing Yoga
When: Fridays (8:15 to 9:15 a.m) July 20 to Sept. 14 (except Aug. 15, 2018)
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

Chair and Standing Yoga
When: Thursdays (1:45 to 2:45 p.m) July 19 to Sept. 13 (except Aug. 17, 2018)
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

Creative Writers Club
When: Mondays (1 to 3 p.m.) July 16 to Sept. 10 (except Aug. 13 & Sept 3)
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

Beginning Computers
When: Tuesdays (9 to 11 a.m.) July 17 to Aug. 7
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

Intermediate Spanish
When: Mondays (9 to 11 a.m.) July 16 to Sept. 10 (except Aug. 13 & Sept 3)
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

Beginning Spanish
When: Tuesdays (9 to 11 a.m.) July 17 to Sept. 11 (except Aug. 14))
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

English as a Second Language (ESL)
When: Mondays & Tuesdays (10 to 11 a.m.) July 16 to Sept. 11 (except Aug 13 & 14)
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

Crochet and Knitting
When: Thursdays (12:30 to 1:30 p.m.) July 19 to Sept. 13 (except Aug 16)
Where: Shadow Mountain Senior Center 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85032-6100

Yoga
When: Every Mondays at 1:00 PM and Every Wednesdays at 9:00 AM
Where: South Mountain Senior Center 212 E. Alta Vista Road Phoenix, Arizona 85042-4219

Tai Chi
When: Every Thursdays at 9:00 AM
Where: South Mountain Senior Center 212 E. Alta Vista Road Phoenix, Arizona 85042-4219

Walking Club
When: Every Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:00 AM
Where: South Mountain Senior Center 212 E. Alta Vista Road Phoenix, Arizona 85042-4219

HSAG Diabetes Workshop
When: Every Mondays, July 2, 9, 16, 23,30
Where: South Mountain Senior Center 212 E. Alta Vista Road Phoenix, Arizona 85042-4219

Aromatherapy
When: Fridays at 10:00 a.m. from August 3 to August 31
Where: Sunnyslope Senior Center 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-2131

Chair Yoga
When: Tuesdays & Thursdays at 12:30 p.m. from July 3 to September 27
Where: Sunnyslope Senior Center 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-2131

Diabetes Workshop
When: Tuesdays at 9 a.m. from July 17 to August 28
Where: Sunnyslope Senior Center 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-2131

Line Dancing
When: Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. from July 12 to August 30
Where: Sunnyslope Senior Center 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-2131

Mat and Standing Yoga
When: Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m. from July 11 to September 26
Where: Sunnyslope Senior Center 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-2131

Pilates
When: Mondays (10:30 a.m.), Wednesdays (2:30 p.m.) & Fridays (2:30 p.m.)
Where: Sunnyslope Senior Center 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-2131

Strength Training
When: Mondays, Wednesdays & Friday at 9:30 a.m.
Where: Sunnyslope Senior Center 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-2131

Tai Chi
When: Tuesdays at 12:30 p.m.
Where: Sunnyslope Senior Center 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-2131

Fine Arts
When: Tuesdays at 12:30 p.m.
Where: Sunnyslope Senior Center 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-2131

Jewelry Making
When: Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m.
Where: Sunnyslope Senior Center 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-2131

Beginning Guitar
When: Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. from July 12 to August 23
Where: Sunnyslope Senior Center 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-2131

Readers Theatre
When: Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. from Aug 30 to September 15
Where: Sunnyslope Senior Center 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-2131

Wood Art
When: Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. from July 19 to August 9
Where: Sunnyslope Senior Center 802 E. Vogel Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85020-2131

3 Differences between Independent Living and Assisted Living

3 Differences between Independent Living and Assisted Living

Making the decision to move into a senior care community is not an easy decision for both the senior and their loved ones. Along with the emotional challenges that come with moving, your family will also be faced with different kinds of senior living options. For this reason, it’s important to know your options.

Assisted Living Facilities and Independent Living are two of the most popular senior care options available today but most people still often confuse one with the other. It’s easy to see why since both have striking similarities:

  • Your loved one’s social circle widens since he/she is surrounded by other seniors.
  • There are activities that promote cognitive function and improve social interaction.
  • Different amenities your loved one can enjoy – personal trainers, gardens, transportation, pool, and the like, depending on the facility.

The key difference between Assisted Living and Independent Living all boils down to the level of care they provide.

Assisted Living Facility

An Assisted Living facility is mainly designed for seniors who are unable to live safely on their own. These seniors may also need extra help when it comes to the activities of daily living such as bathing, eating, dressing among other things. However, the amount of assistance an Assisted Living facility provides can only go so far.

Assisted Living residents should not require extensive care since the facility does not have a skilled nursing staff available 24/7. However, family members should not be worried as highly trained staffs are always on the premises to attend to the senior’s needs.

An Assisted Living facility generally offers:

  • Transportation services
  • Housekeeping
  • Wellness programs
  • Social activities and events
  • Medication management
  • Assistance with daily living – dressing, bathing, eating, etc.

Independent Living Facility

An Independent Living facility is designed for seniors who are perfectly capable of living by themselves. It’s very similar to a housing, but for the elderly. It’s mainly for seniors who do not want to live alone but has to leave their homes due to various reasons. Whether they want to move into a smaller house or widen their social circle, Independent Living enables them to live comfortably in a healthy, safe, and active environment.

Independent living typically offers:

  • Housekeeping
  • Landscaping
  • Meal preparation
  • Social activities and events
  • Transportation
  • Wellness program
  • Security services

The term Independent Living is also known to many as a retirement community, a retirement home, senior apartments, active adult community, 55+ community, or a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC).

Assisted Living vs. Independent Living

We’ve already established that the main difference between Assisted Living and Independent Living facilities is the level of care being provided. Let’s find out more about the differences between the two in terms of care services, living space, and various payment options.

1. Care Services and Other Amenities

Assisted Living: As you now know, assisted living extends their services to the elderly who are incapable of living by themselves but require minimal assistance with the activities of daily living, such as medication management, eating, bathing, and the like.

While assisted living is usually not staffed by medical professionals 24/7, they do have an on-duty medical professional – caregivers or nurse practitioners. Facilities make sure that there should be at least one to two medical professionals to keep an eye on the residents round-the-clock.

Other facilities also have a special memory care unit for seniors suffering from mild to severe dementia, depending on what the facility offers. However, most of them do not offer care for people with extreme health issues.

Independent Living: Independent Living aims to make the senior’s daily living easier for them. They want to provide them with a high quality of life, surrounded by like-minded individuals that enables them to live independently as long as possible. Communities typically offer basic housekeeping services, landscaping, meal preparation, social activities, and events, as well as security surveillance.

The seniors living in these communities are usually active and healthy, which is why round-the-clock care is not needed. You might be wondering why seniors move into a senior living community despite being healthy. One of the reasons why they move into independent living facilities is that they need help with household chores or they may need to socialize and interact more with other people to avoid social isolation.

Both facilities have scheduled activities for the residents. While the type of activities varies for every facility, one of the most common ones are usually:

  • Game nights
  • Group exercises
  • Field trips
  • Support and discussion groups
  • Continuing education courses
  • Holiday celebrations – 4th of July, Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving, etc.

Assisted Living and Independent Living both offer transportation services for the residents; driving them to doctor’s appointments, grocery stores, and other errands.

2. Living Space

Assisted Living: For Assisted Living facilities, apartment-style units are the most common styles available. It can either be fully-furnished or not and some rooms may have small kitchens. As mentioned, some assisted living facilities have special care or memory care units for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

Independent Living: The living space usually depends on the facility itself. Some may opt for the apartment-style communities or a building with a number of rooms. The main feature of independent living communities is that residents have their own private living space and a common room where they can mingle and socialize with other people.

3. Payment Options and Financial Considerations

Another difference between Assisted Living and Independent Living is the modes of payment and the access to different financial resources. It’s a known fact that senior living is not cheap – it actually costs a lot of money. Your access to different financial resources is a great help in cutting the out-of-pocket costs of assisted living.

Assisted Living: Some Assisted Living facilities to ask for additional costs if the senior would need another type of specialized care other than the ones indicated in the contract, especially so when they would have to hire a medical professional to look after them.

You can make use of different financial resources to pay for Assisted Living, such as long-term care insurance policies, life settlements, reverse mortgage funds, annuities, Aid and Attendance benefits for your veteran loved one, as well as savings and personal funds.

You can also use Medicaid for financial assistance but it depends on the state you’re located. As for Medicare, it only covers a small part of the total cost. It only pays for a short-term stay that aids a senior in recovering from a surgery or temporary illness.

Independent Living: Rent is the primary cost in Independent Living communities. Additional costs apply if the community offers different recreational activities outside the Independent Living, such as private golf courses and the like. The senior will have to pay for extra costs incurred to cover for membership and/or other necessary fees.

Healthcare financial aid programs funded by the government cannot pay for independent living costs since the senior will not be receiving medical care. Alternatively, seniors may use their retirement savings, Social Security, pension income, and personal funds.

The Verdict: Which Is Better?

Ultimately, it all boils down to what you’re elderly loved one needs. If the senior doesn’t have any health complications and is capable of living independently, Independent Living facilities may be the best option for them. Residing in Independent Living means lesser chores to do and more opportunities for social interaction and activities.

On the other hand, if your elderly loved one constantly needs help with activities of daily living or if they have dementia or Alzheimer’s, assisted living should be one of their options. Rest assured that your elderly loved one will receive the attention they need while staying as independent as possible.

7 Differences Between Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing

7 Differences Between Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing

Is your elderly loved one starting to require a higher level of care than usual? If so, then you’ll soon bear the burden of choosing the right senior living community for them. Since there are numerous senior living communities that come with different costs, benefits, and the like, finding the best senior care can be daunting.

Which is why it’s best to do your research, ask questions, and thoroughly compare each senior living environment to the other.

Skilled Nursing vs. Assisted Living

Among the senior living options, two of the most common are assisted living communities and skilled nursing facilities. Unfortunately, not a lot of people know the difference between the two. To help you and your loved one make this life-changing decision, here are seven main differences between skilled nursing and assisted living facilities:

1.    The Facility’s Goal

Skilled nursing facilities look to rehabilitate seniors so they could be able to return to living independently or to move into another senior care option, such as assisted living facilities. With that said, seniors in skilled nursing facilities only stay for a short period of time.

On the other hand, seniors in assisted living facilities are in it for the long run. The goal of assisted living is to help seniors maintain their independence while being provided with the day-to-day care they need. It’s important to know that one senior care option isn’t better than the other because all care facilities cater to every kind of need.

Both assisted living and skilled nursing offer enrichment activities to keep seniors entertained, such as social groups, events, group discussions, group exercises, religious services, field trips, dining choices, game nights, and more. This makes the senior care community feel more like an actual community or home.

2.    Level of Care Administered

Senior care communities are there to empower seniors and help them live their best quality of life for as long as possible. One of the main differences between these communities is the services and the level of care offered. To know the best senior living option for your loved one, all you have to do is to know their needs and the type of care required to keep them healthy – emotionally and physically.

Does your loved one need daily therapy? Artificial respirations? Or IV medications? It might be best for them to stay at a skilled nursing facility where their needs will be properly met by the right staff and environment.

On the contrary, if your loved one does not require constant medical attention, assisted living facilities may be better for them since assisted living residents generally need minimal assistance in terms of:

  •         Activities of daily living (eating, dressing, bathing, etc.)
  •         Social support
  •         Mental health
  •         Medication management
  •         Financial management

If you’re unsure about what your loved one needs, it’s best to ask the senior’s medical team since they’re the ones who know exactly what they need.

3.    Length of Stay

We’ve established that skilled nursing is meant for seniors who are recuperating from a disease or when there is a sudden decline in the senior’s health. For this reason, seniors may temporarily stay in skilled nursing facilities to recover before moving (usually permanently) into an independent living facility or even to an assisted living.

On the flip side, assisted living is a senior community where seniors stay long term. They’re able to enjoy living independently, surrounded by their peers, while receiving all the help they need when they need it.

4.    Staff Availability

Skilled nursing facilities usually have, at the very least, one registered nurse in the premises 24/7. While assisted living facilities should have an on-call licensed practical nurse and/or registered nurse. The law doesn’t state that nurses have to be in the facility at all times. With that said, if you think your loved one needs constant medical care, nursing facilities is the better option.

Honesty and awareness are important in assessing your loved one’s needs. You wouldn’t want them to move into an assisted living facility only to find out they need to be transferred to skilled nursing a few months later. However, no matter how prepared you are, this situation may inevitably happen due to a sudden shift in the senior’s health. But rest assured that thoroughly assessing your loved one’s current and future needs will save both parties from further frustration and additional expenses.

5.    Cost

Skilled nursing facilities usually cost more than assisted living because of the 24/7 medical care the patients receive. However, there are different ways to help lower the cost of skilled nursing. Programs such as Medicaid and insurances such as long-term care insurance are of great help. While the price of senior living isn’t cheap, it shouldn’t hinder your loved one from receiving the care they rightly deserve.

6.    Level of Independence

In terms of the level of independence, skilled nursing facilities do not offer much independence since it’s all about helping seniors recover from recent hospitalization or health decline. Seniors in skilled nursing usually need constant monitoring and overall medical care.

On the other hand, assisted living highly encourage its resident to be independent as much as possible. The residents have the freedom to make their own schedule and also they get to decide when they need assistance.

Assisted living facilities have a daily schedule of activities. The staff should only encourage, not force, seniors to participate. Most assisted living facilities also have transportation services that seniors can use when they need to doctor’s appointments or social events.

7.    Insurance Coverage and Other Payment Options

Seniors may use their Medicare and/or Medicaid programs in skilled nursing since it primarily focuses on medical care. But these programs (health insurance and Medicare programs) cannot be used to cover the cost of assisted living.

While there are numerous long-term care insurance policies that can help your loved one pay for assisted living, most of the costs are paid by the senior’s personal funds. If you want to know more about payment options, it is best to consult with your local elder law attorney for more information.

It’s easy to see why seniors would pick assisted living communities over skilled nursing facilities because of the perks and the independence offered. However, it’s important to remember that choosing the right senior living environment all boils down to the level of care your elderly loved one needs.