Alternatives to nursing homes: Senior shared living and assisted living

In our changing society, alternative forms of housing that meet the needs of different age groups are becoming increasingly important. A good option is senior shared living communities or assisted living. These vibrant communities offer older people a way to enjoy their lives in a caring environment while maintaining their independence.

First, let's take a look at senior shared living communities.

What is a senior shared living community?

Senior shared living communities are communal apartments where older people live together and support each other, and enjoy a higher quality of life in company. Unlike traditional nursing homes, residents in senior shared living communities retain their independence and privacy. This form of housing offers an ideal balance between individual space and social interaction. Of course, each senior shared living community can decide for itself how secure it wants to be. Some acquire emergency call systems for their arm, while others only consider emergency call systems in the bathroom to be useful, in case a fall in the shower or bathtub cannot be prevented.

How do senior shared living communities work?

Typically, a senior shared living community comprises a group of 4-8 people who share a house or apartment. Each resident has their own room and often their own bathroom with an emergency call system. Common areas such as the living room, kitchen, and garden are shared. Depending on the needs of the residents, additional support services such as meals, cleaning, emergency call systems, or medical care can also be organized.

The advantages of senior shared living communities

 

Community and social interaction:

Social isolation in old age can lead to loneliness and depression. In a senior shared living community, residents experience regular social interactions and can build friendships, which can have a positive effect on their mental health.

Independence

Senior shared living communities allow residents to maintain their autonomy and independence. They can maintain their personal activities and routines while benefiting from the community. Despite living together, seniors can maintain their rest periods and also simply relax on their own.

Cost savings

The cost of living in a senior shared living community can be lower compared to nursing homes. Sharing resources such as living space and services can reduce the financial burden.

Shared responsibility

Residents often share responsibilities such as shopping, meal preparation, and household management. This promotes a sense of belonging and active engagement in the community.

Support when needed: Although senior shared living communities are geared towards independence, they still offer the possibility of receiving support from flatmates, especially in emergencies or during health challenges, emergency call systems can be useful.

If we consider other options where shared living, personal peace and independence are paramount, assisted living comes to mind.

What is assisted living?

Assisted living is a form of housing that offers older people a combination of independent living and supportive services such as emergency call systems. It is aimed at people who are still relatively independent but still need some form of help or care. Assisted living facilities can be independent apartments, flats or townhouses located in a community with other seniors. In these facilities, safety, comfort and social interaction are paramount.

How does assisted living work?

Assisted living offers a wide range of services and amenities to meet individual needs. These could include:

• Safety and emergency care:

  Staff or emergency call systems available around the clock provide a sense of security and enable quick responses in an emergency.

• Community and activities

  Assisted living facilities often offer organized activities, excursions and social events to promote social interaction and the well-being of residents.

• Household and care services:
  Depending on the need, support with housework, meal preparation and personal care services can be offered.

• Healthcare:

  Some facilities offer regular health monitoring, medication management and support with doctor's visits.

The advantages of assisted living

 

Independence:

Assisted living allows older people to maintain their independence while still having access to support services when needed. Many use emergency call systems that are connected to an emergency call center. However, many also simply register each other as emergency contacts. This is possible, for example, with the "Gardia" emergency call system.

Community:

Proximity to peers promotes social interaction and prevents isolation, which can have a positive effect on mental health.

Security

The presence of emergency call systems and on-site staff provides a sense of security for both residents and their relatives.

Relief

Household and care services can make everyday life easier and relieve relatives who care for older family members.

Active aging

The diverse activities and offers promote active aging and contribute to maintaining health and well-being.

Both senior shared living communities and assisted living offer a refreshing alternative to traditional forms of housing in old age. They combine independence and community in a harmonious way and allow older people to spend their golden years in a supportive environment. While neither senior shared living communities nor assisted living are suitable for everyone, they can be a highly attractive option for those seeking social interaction, independence, and security. They offer a supportive community, security, and a variety of services, such as emergency call systems, that meet the needs of older age. Often, services such as a nursing service connected to an emergency call system are also used. The choice of the right assisted living depends on individual preferences, needs, and financial possibilities, but it can be a groundbreaking decision to enjoy one's golden years to the fullest.