Deciding on the level of care that you or a loved one needs is a significant step. It’s a choice that reflects your commitment to providing the highest level of care and support through the aging journey. While making this decision, be sure to consider enhanced assisted living options. These specialized living options offer a bridge between traditional assisted living and nursing care, creating a nurturing, home-like environment where individuals can age in place with confidence.
We understand that making this decision can be daunting, which is why we’re here to guide you every step of the way. In this article, we’ve compiled common questions about how Enhanced Assisted Living can support you or your loved one during this important transition.
How Do You Recognize the Need for Enhanced Assisted Living?
Recognizing the need involves observing changes in your loved one’s ability to perform the activities of daily life independently, such as requiring assistance with physical tasks or higher-level medical care. During our pre-admission tours and meetings, we thoroughly review these needs to tailor the appropriate level of care. Many communities review residents’ care plans weekly and as necessary to ensure the right level of care is being delivered. Additionally, family input plays a crucial role in identifying when a move to Enhanced Assisted Living is beneficial and ensures your loved one receives the right support at the right time.
What Are the Differences Between Enhanced and Traditional Assisted Living?
The primary differences between Enhanced Assisted Living and traditional assisted living lie in the level of care, staffing, and regulations. Enhanced Assisted Living offers more intensive medical and personal care, with higher staff-to-resident ratios to ensure personalized attention. These facilities also meet stricter regulatory requirements, providing advanced care to residents who need more support than what traditional assisted living offers.
Does Transitioning to Enhanced Assisted Living Require a Room Change?
Many communities, including ours, offer options that allow residents to stay in their current rooms while receiving enhanced care services. This minimizes disruption and maintains a sense of familiarity and comfort for the resident. However, it is important to note that some buildings or units within a community might require a move to accommodate the higher level of care. We recommend discussing this during your initial tour to understand the specific policies and options available in your selected community. In addition, moving to Enhanced Assisted Living doesn’t mean sacrificing personal space or comfort. All rooms at Home of the Good Shepherd are private, ensuring that each resident can enjoy their own sense of independence and personal space regardless of the level of care they require.
Are Activities and Social Engagement Still Available in Enhanced Assisted Living?
A vital aspect of any senior living community is the opportunity for social interaction and engagement. Home of the Good Shepherd organizes a wide variety of events, group activities, and outings designed to keep everyone involved and connected. All residents, including those receiving enhanced care, are encouraged to participate in the daily events and activities.
Bonus tip! When you are making your initial tours of potential Assisted Living Communities, try to stop by during an activity that you or your loved one might enjoy. A firsthand experience will give you a great example of the lifestyle found within the community.
What Care and Medication Management Services Are Provided in Enhanced Assisted Living?
Enhanced assisted living includes a variety of specialized care and medication management services to support residents’ health and well-being. Services might encompass:
- Incontinence care
- Oxygen (O2) management
- Assistance with transferring, ambulating, and the use of mechanical lifts
- Feeding assistance
- Regular monitoring of vital signs such as daily blood pressure and weights
- Care for residents with catheters or colostomies
In addition to these potential enhanced care services, comprehensive health and medication management services are available for conditions like diabetes. All care and medication management are conducted under the supervision and orders of the resident’s physician, ensuring a coordinated approach to health management and individualized support.
Have More Questions About Enhanced Assisted Living?
We’re here to help! Contact us to learn more about Home of the Good Shepherd’s assisted living, enhanced assisted living, and memory care services, or schedule a tour of our enhanced assisted living community and learn how we can tailor our services to your specific needs.