Let’s face it, senior living has a varied reputation – from the way it’s portrayed in movies and television to the stories you hear from people who’ve had either excellent or very poor experiences. Bad news travels faster and farther than good news, and as a story grows and spreads, it’s stripped of much of the truth; thus, are born the myths of senior living.
Bust the Myths – Learn The Truth About the Senior Living Lifestyle
We are here to dispel these myths and offer not only truth, but some helpful information and guidance as you research what senior living is all about, and if it’s right for you or your loved one.
Myth #1: Senior Living is synonymous with nursing home
What comes to mind when you hear the phrase “senior living”? For many, this phrase conjures a one-shoe-fits-all lifestyle that better resembles the halls of a hospital rather than that of a loved home. The reality is that senior living is much more varied – it’s an umbrella term that encompasses lifestyles ranging from retirement communities or independent living to assisted living, and memory care. Here’s a breakdown of the types of senior care offered by Radiant Senior Living: 
- Retirement Communities/Independent Living gives seniors the opportunity to retire in a community setting, providing opportunities to engage in activities, outings, and social groups. This sense of community can help seniors avoid feelings of isolation and loneliness that they may experience living on their own. Another benefit of independent living is the option to set aside chores and responsibilities to focus time on family, friends, and interests. In these communities, many seniors find they enjoy the convenience of services such as restaurant-style dining, laundry and housekeeping, and chauffeured shopping/appointments.
- Assisted Living combines the comfort of a retirement community with the addition of personal care support services, such as medication management, assistance with daily personal care (dressing, bathing, nail care, etc.), life enrichment activities, and 24/7 on-site support.
- Memory Care communities are designed to meet the needs of seniors experiencing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, dementia, and memory loss. These communities provide assisted care services in addition to memory care programming. Endorsements for Memory Care are state-regulated, with clear requirements for training, engagement, and personal care programming, as well as community features. Things to look for in a Memory Care community for your loved one include licensure or endorsement, personalized care, a robust activity plan, a building design that is community-centered, and a care team trained to meet the needs of varying stages of dementia.
Myth #2: Senior living is boring
When you think of senior living activities, it’s likely that one thing comes to mind: Bingo! While BINGO will probably be a regular event on the calendar (and honestly, our residents love it!), senior living has so much more to offer.
Most senior living communities feature communal settings where fellowship and interaction are encouraged. These communities keep a full calendar of events, and activities directed and designed by a skilled group of activity leaders to keep you active. Resident participation is encouraged and personalized to each resident’s ability in a successful and engaging life-enrichment program. When these elements align, boredom will not be an issue!
Here are three ways to explore an activity program before moving in:
- Explore the community’s Events and Activities Calendar.
Typically, senior living communities will have their activity calendars posted on their website. If the calendar is not available, you can reach out to the community and ask for an emailed copy to be sent to you. Find a Radiant Senior Living community near you and explore our Event & Activities Calendars by visiting the Calendar of Events page.
- Speak with the community’s leadership.
One of the best ways to learn what activities are available is to go directly to the source. Call the community you are interested in and speak with the Life Enrichment Director. You can ask how the resident’s interests and needs are taken into consideration in planning their event calendar.
- Follow a community on social media.
By following a community’s Instagram and Facebook page, you get a direct view of what life in that community is like. You can find photos of residents engaging in activities, as well as announcements for upcoming events. This will help you get a feel of what to expect as a resident.
Myth #3: Senior living is too expensive
According to Genworth’s 2020 Cost of Care Survey, the average monthly cost for assisted living in the United States is $4,300. That may sound like a lot, but it’s likely comparable to the cost of receiving the same care at home. This cost covers housing, all meals and snacks, activities, transportation, medication management, and help with daily tasks like hygiene and personal care – all with the comfort of knowing there is someone available 24/7 to care for yourself or your loved one. 
When making financial decisions for your future, getting organized helps! You may find it helpful to do a side-by-side comparison of your current cost of living (everything from rent/mortgage payments, utilities, groceries, entertainment, etc.) to the amenities offered at the senior living communities you are considering. You may be surprised to find that moving to a senior care community will make sense for you financially, while also providing mental and physical health benefits.
Ready to tour? Download our free printable Financial Comparison Worksheet and print off as many as you need to take to each of the communities that you are considering.
If you or a loved one is ready to make the move to senior living, we invite you to explore your options with us — schedule a tour, speak with our dedicated team of caregivers, and see for yourself what Radiant Senior Living is all about.
