Assisted Living a Healthy Housing Option for Seniors
Assisted living communies allow residents who need physical assistance to live in a safe and comfortable environment while retaining as much independence as possible. Living quarters and shared spaces are designed to reduce risks from falls – a leading cause of serious injury for many seniors. The facilities are staffed with professional caregivers and supervised by nurses who monitor medical issues. Staffing is 24/7. Someone is always ready to lend a hand.
Assisted living provides an environment that addresses three of the biggest challenges affecting senior citizens’ wellness: poor diet, medication management and depression. According to senior advocates, these challenges are directly responsible for decreases in quality of life and life expectancy.
Many seniors -- especially those who live alone -- eat an unbalanced diet, which can lead to a variety of health problems. Assisted living facilities provide three nutritious and tasty meals every day designed for their special needs. Medication regimes for seniors can be complicated. In assisted living, trained caregivers ensure that residents take their medicines exactly as prescribed and that prescriptions are always filled. For emotional health – and to remedy the depression that can come from loneliness and feeling isolated – assisted living provides daily interaction, outings and social programs to keep residents active and engaged.
To address freeway noise, the building is designed with noise-resistant walls and windows on its western exposure. Outdoor spaces are located on the east side of the building or behind sound walls. To control air quality, ventilation systems are equipped with intake filters to remove pollution before it enters the building. A Sound Study and Health Affects Study included as part of the project’s Environmental Impact Report found no significant issues.
