Saturday's Internet Edition, May 17, 2008.
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Assisted living provides a middle ground for people who are not able to live by themselves, but who do not require constant care either. Residents receive help based on their needs. Assistance may include help with meal preparation, eating, bathing, dressing, housekeeping, laundry and assistance with medication.
So how does assisted living differ from nursing home care? Generally, nursing homes care for frail people who have numerous health issues and who are not able to care for themselves. Assisted living residents are generally able to care for themselves except for a few activities. Assisted living provides an intermediate level of long-term care for seniors who wish to live independently for as long as possible.
The assisted living wing at Richards Memorial Hospital opened in June 2004 with 10 completely remodeled rooms that feature amenities such as private bathrooms, individual thermostats and phone service, private parking, community dining and living areas, and computer access. Help is also available with daily tasks such as meals, laundry and medication. Residents are encouraged to personalize their rooms with furniture and belongings from home. The Hospital Auxiliary has a long-range plan that includes adding a gazebo to the garden area.