Surprising Common Misconceptions About Senior Living Communities

Unless you’ve already lived in a senior living community or know someone who has, you may not have all the facts. Not understanding what everyday life is like in such a community may mean you have preconceived ideas that aren’t entirely accurate.

It can be important to have all the facts so you can make a well-informed decision that’s right for you or a loved one. Here are some surprising misconceptions you may not have realized:

Myth: You Lose Your Independence

Moving from your home into a community environment may make you assume you’ll lose your independence. After all, you’ll join a community of like-minded people and receive assistance from care associates.

However, most reputable senior living communities want their residents to remain independent for as long as possible. Whether you join them in Assisted Living or Independent Living programs, you can typically expect a custom level of care to help you thrive.

For example, Assisted Living residents often enjoy daily assistance with dressing, hygiene, and mobility if they require it. You receive the level of support you need as an individual. In Independent Living, most residents enjoy help with tasks they may struggle with, like vacuuming, dusting, and doing laundry.  

Myth: They’re for People Who Can’t Look After Themselves

It’s easy to assume that senior living communities are only suitable for seniors who can’t look after themselves. After all, you can enjoy helpful services and amenities in these communities.

However, they’re for any senior who wants to thrive in their retirement years. Whether you enter Assisted Living or Independent Living, you can choose to transition into a senior living community when you want to enjoy living near like-minded people.

Many highly-regarded communities offer social activities, restaurant-quality meals, convenient amenities, and helpful services. Any senior can benefit from these offerings, whether they feel confident looking after themselves or not.

Myth: They’re Boring

Joining a senior living community can be far from boring. Most reputable communities go above and beyond to help their residents get the most out of every day. You can often enjoy scheduled transportation to explore your local town and city and fun communal spaces. Many of the best senior living communities also plan dozens of fun activities, events, and classes for residents to participate in every month.

Myth: You Can’t Bring Your Pets

Many people don’t want to move into senior living communities because they fear having to give up their pets. They would rather live in a potentially unsafe and isolating living environment just to keep their dog or cat with them.

While not all senior living communities are pet-friendly, many are. You may like to contact your preferred community and ask about their pet policy. You may be surprised by how many communities have pet-friendly apartments for their residents.

Myth: You Don’t Get Any Privacy

Living in a senior living community means joining like-minded people at a shared address. You might assume that means never getting any privacy. Quite the opposite is true in most standout senior living communities.

While you can participate in social activities with other residents and enjoy their company, you’ll have your own private apartment to call your own. This is your haven and sanctuary that you live in alone or with a loved one.

Learn More About Elison Independent & Assisted Living of Maplewood

If you’re unsure what to expect from a senior living community near you, contact Elison Independent & Assisted Living of Maplewood today. We look forward to answering your questions. You can also schedule a personal tour to explore our grounds, meet our team, and feel confident choosing the most appropriate living option for your unique needs.