A Guide to Assisted Living in the UK
It is never an easy decision to send a senior into a facility where they are provided with care, or to move them away from the family home. However, with an assisted living facility, an elderly loved one can retain their independence for as long as possible. On top of this, you can rest assured that there is help when they need it.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is residential care, usually for the elderly or people with a disability. This care usually provides an individual or a couple with their own flat within a complex, usually purpose-built, with employees on-site.
While facilities can vary, there are usually staff to provide assistance when needed. They can help with things like personal care, using the toilet, cooking, and cleaning.
Benefits of Assisted Living
Assisted living, sometimes referred to as “Extra Care Housing”, is usually preferable when compared to other forms of care facilities.
One major plus point is the fact that there is usually help on hand 24/7. Many of these assisted living facilities have a panic button or assistance button system. This means that if needed, help is on hand. On top of this, assisted living lets people retain their privacy and independence more than they would in many care home environments.
Many assisted living complexes also give the opportunity for people to socialise and take part in activities should they wish to. Some have cafes or communal areas on-site where the residents can mix and fulfil their social needs.
How to Choose the Right Facility
This is a major decision for anyone to take. NHS guidance can help you to evaluate what might be available in the local area, and which type of housing is suitable for your needs.
It is vital that you choose a facility that is suitable. Considerations for choosing the correct facility include:
- Cost: The more facilities and the better the reputation, the more likely you are to have to pay higher rates for the care and accommodation. Assisted living is not cheap.
- Reviews: It pays to check what others have said about the facility. Be on the lookout for other peoples’ experiences both good and bad.
- Level of Care: If you think you are going to require a higher level of care, it is worth checking that the facility is capable of providing this. Consider how any medical conditions may deteriorate in the coming years and whether the provider is cut out for it.
- Culture and Activities: If you are going to be choosing a facility because you want to fulfil social needs, then take some time to check what sort of activities are usually going on in the communal spaces. Is there plenty to get involved in?
- First Impressions: It’s a good idea to visit and look for signs of whether the space is suitable. Is it well-equipped, clean, and well-staffed? These are all key considerations.