Question: How interactive and involved are the caregivers at assisted living facilities? Do the residents experience much alone time?
Answer: Assisted living communities offer a variety of activities in which residents can choose to be involved. Most offer a calendar with daily activities tailored to the interests of their residents as a part of life-enrichment programming. Of course, if someone chooses not to attend activities or simply needs some time to themselves, they can pursue independent activities such as puzzles or reading in the library. Or, some residents may need some downtime in their apartment, and that’s OK, too.
The assisted living care model is based on choice and independence, so that means the residents can be as active as they choose (or not), depending upon their preference. Staff members are trained to encourage residents to attend activities but are sensitive to the balance necessary for quality of life.
Staff members are trained to encourage residents to attend activities but are sensitive to the balance necessary for quality of life.
They are also trained to note and report when someone is isolating in their apartment, missing meals or has a change in behavior that may indicate depression or a decline in health. Assisted living staff generally check on residents throughout the day, offer hydration and snacks, remind them of meals and activities as a means of engaging with other residents, and ensuring they’re functioning optimally both physically and mentally.