Making the move to residential aged care is a significant and life-changing decision – and there’s no denying it can be an emotional and difficult one. This is particularly true if you’ve lived in your home for many years, or if the decision is made as a result of the loss of a partner, or a medical or health crisis.
While making such a big change to your life can be difficult, aged care communities offer a huge array of benefits to their residents. Perhaps it might surprise you to know that people living in aged care facilities are often happier than those living alone, and generally have a better quality of life. There’s a lot to like about life in aged care – here are just five of the many advantages you’ll find in aged care communities.
Less isolation, more socialisation
It’s common for older people to become both physically and emotionally isolated from friends and family when living alone. Loneliness can be a real problem – and it often leads to depression. These problems are solved with a move into aged care, which gives you the opportunity to spend time with likeminded people of a similar age, and make new friends. The social environment is one of the big drawcards of aged care communities, and you can’t underestimate the value of feeling part of a community again. And it doesn’t mean that you have to spend all your time with other people – you’re free to have your own space when you choose to, and socialise at whatever level feels right to you.
Fewer chores, more free time
No one really enjoys doing chores – and another of the great things about aged care is that you no longer have to! You won’t have to worry about cooking, cleaning household maintenance or gardening, as the aged care staff will do it all for you. As well, the staff will make your life much easier by assisting with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, feeding and taking medication if you need it. You’ll be free to just relax and enjoy being looked after, and to spend your time exactly as you wish. After all, you’ve earned the right to some freedom and care!
Less boredom, more activities and choices
Your world can become smaller as you age, and many old people fall into the trap of just doing the same things they’ve always done. However, it’s never too late to try new things – and doing so is actually good for your brain and cognitive functioning. Residential aged care facilities provide residents with a wide range of extracurricular activities to enjoy, both onsite and offsite. While you don’t have to participate unless you want to, with such a huge choice of activities and entertainment options, there’s sure to be something you’ll enjoy. You might even find a great new hobby to take up!
Fewer health worries, more health care
Health worries can be very stressful as you age, particularly if you live alone. If you struggle to manage your health issues, there’s no better place to get on-site medical assistance and a high level of care than in an aged care facility. You’ll get simple and quick access to a wide range of health services, equipment, medication and specialist care, as well as round-the-clock medical care in an emergency. Aged care facilities have nurses on site at all times, as well as staff to help you take all the stress out of managing your health. They can help you with prescription medication, recommend treatment providers, manage medical appointments and arrange specialist visits on site if necessary. It’s far better than having to rely on friends, family or neighbours for help, who often don’t have the experience or knowledge to assist your properly. Aged care staff can much more effectively monitor your health and provide professional support whenever necessary.
Less stress, more peace of mind
What all this adds up to is peace of mind – you can relax in an aged care facility, knowing help is never far away if you need it. As well, the stress of managing and maintaining a home and garden lifts from your shoulders, leaving you free to just enjoy your golden years.
Have a look at Finley Regional Care, an aged care facility that provides all these benefits and more: https://www.finleyregionalcare.com.au