If you or someone you love is considering assisted living, you may feel a little overwhelmed by all the options and information out there. Finding a new home that balances independence with the right kind of support is a big decision. At Cedarbrook Senior Living in Northville, we’re more than just a community; we’re a family. We can walk with you every step of the way, answering your questions and helping you feel confident about the next chapter.
What is an assisted living community?
Assisted living communities are designed to provide a supportive environment for seniors who need a little extra help with daily tasks but still want to enjoy as much independence as possible. Most assisted living facilities offer assistance with daily living activities like medication management, personal care, and meal preparation.
Importantly, the right assisted living community doesn’t just offer proper care: it creates a place where residents feel at home, make friends, and have daily engagement opportunities that promote well-being and happiness.
What are the eligibility requirements for assisted living?
To qualify for assisted living, you’ll typically need to meet a minimum age requirement and go through a health screening to ensure the assisted living level of care is safe and appropriate for you. At Cedarbrook Senior Living in Northville, the minimum age requirement for prospective residents is 60.
Generally people who choose assisted living versus independent living require assistance with one or several daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, or moving from place to place. They are also medically stable enough to live safely in a community setting without 24/7 skilled nursing care.
Cognitive health assessments
Cognitive health is part of determining eligibility, as standard assisted living is designed to support residents who are relatively independent besides needing daily assistance with personal care. Fortunately, for seniors experiencing dementia or other memory impairments, many assisted living communities offer specialized memory care programs that provide support tailored to their unique needs.
Medical care requirements
Medical health assessments are also key. Team members at most assisted living facilities are trained in medication management, personal care assistance, and emergency response, but assisted living care is not the same as skilled nursing care. Skilled nursing facilities provide more intensive medical services, with healthcare professionals onsite to address complex medical conditions.
Daily living needs
Assisted living communities consider an applicant’s ability to perform daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and moving around. Assisted living is ideal for seniors who need help with these activities but are looking to maintain as much independence as possible. At Cedarbrook Senior Living, we offer daily support with meal preparation, medication reminders, mobility challenges, and more, all designed to help residents live comfortably and confidently.
Financial considerations
Cost and payment options are important factors in the eligibility process. Assisted living expenses can range widely depending on location and services provided. Potential residents should plan carefully and explore options such as private pay, long-term care insurance, and government assistance programs. Be sure to ask your prospective community what services are and are not included in the base monthly cost, so you are able to compare assisted living options one for one.
Is assisted living the right fit for you?
If you’re unsure about the right level of care, or whether that level of care will be right in the near future, don’t worry. Talk to your prospective assisted living community and explain your concerns. Many communities offer a continuum of care, allowing residents to transition smoothly from independent living to assisted living to memory care as their needs change.
Learn about what to look for in an assisted living community.
Choosing the right assisted living community
Finding the right assisted living community is a personal journey. It requires considering services, amenities, location, and cost, along with your specific needs and preferences. We recommend visiting several communities, asking questions, and talking to current residents and families. As a potential resident or family member, look for assisted living care with genuine connections between residents and staff and an atmosphere that feels like home.
Cedarbrook Senior Living in Northville, MI, offers a private, safe environment in our upscale assisted living community, including personalized care plans and the extra support you need to thrive. If you’re ready to explore assisted living or just have questions, please reach out to us. We’d love to welcome you for a tour so you can see our beautiful grounds, eat a meal with us, meet staff and other residents, and decide if we are a good fit for you.
