Independent or Assisted Living: Options and Answers

There has been a growing trend in the last couple of decades to provide a social, safe and an active community lifestyle for seniors. The biggest need for those 65 and older is assistance with medication followed by bathing. As we age, we began experiencing balance issues and many injuries are caused by falls for those 60 and over. Assisted living facilities and Independent Retirement Communities are providing secure environments for seniors. Aging In Place is a way for older adults to have everything they need right where they are.

Assisted living is a living arrangement that assists with personal care needs such as housekeeping, bath, and mobility assistance while also offering a variety of meaningful social activities. Assisted living assists aging adults with keeping their independence with little assistance. Independent Living provides a variety of housing options from apartments to free standing homes. Services provided by Independent Living Facilities are yard maintenance, housekeeping and laundry services. Often Independent Living communities will provide entertainment and limited transportation for their residents as well.

While searching for the right living environment, consider these three things: The type of atmosphere that is right for you, current and future needs, and stay for a weekend. When choosing a place for retirement consider if it meets your needs with accommodations for family visits, if doctors are nearby and the proximity of churches and friends. Ask if the facility allows you to bring your own furniture. Get an activities calendar and a meal schedule. The second area to consider is your current or future needs. If you currently have a chronic illness such as Parkinson's Disease or MS, then you will want to find a facility that is most qualified for your level of care. Thinking ahead also can help from the need of moving again. A great way to understand Assisted Living or Independent Living is to go for a weekend visit. Most communities welcome families of individuals to visit and have an apartment available. This is a great way to get an idea if that retirement community is right for you and your needs.

There are services available as well for those searching for Assisted Living and Independent Living care. A Place For Mom is a wonderful research to help families and individuals find the best retirement community for their needs.

~April Cummings
Marketing Director, Southern Companions
www.SouthernCompanions.net

Online Dating After 50

Many individuals over the age of 50 are now finding themselves single as the result of a divorce or death of a spouse. For individuals 50 and older, isolation is a troubling issue. Life changes and we become ‘empty nesters’ or find ourselves alone from results of life changes. Studies have shown that as people get older close friendships decline and it seems harder to build new relationships. We know that social connection is an important part of a healthy and happy life. Men and women over 50 are interested in finding a companion or love but many are not sure how to meet new singles.

With the growing trend of online dating, mature adults have found a great way to connect. Mature dating sites have become popular with curious baby boomers back in the dating scene.  These sights are designed for those looking for love and/or companionship. For example, OurTime.com is a sight designed specifically for adults 50 and over. There are other sites such as SeniorPeopleMeet.com that are age specific and now AARP has an online dating site for 50+. Online dating is a great way to connect and meet new local singles to find companionship or soul mate.

Here are a few tips for online dating after 50:

1.      1. It’s okay to be choosy!

Be specific about deciding what you want and don’t settle for anything than less than you deserve. At any age we all need to recognize our value and what we are bringing to the table.

2.      2. Be agreeable.

Focus on the things that are truly important values and limit political views or confrontational topics.

3.      3. Photo is first.

Post a nice photo with a smile. A smile goes a long way and is an attractive quality.

4.      4. It’s in the initiation.

Ladies, allow the men to initiate. Men will pursue when they are interested and they enjoy the challenge. Men, don’t be shy! Women love the attention and want to see your winks, pokes, and notes.