Smaller is better. Especially for older adults with memory issues or cognitive decline, trying to navigate a large, “big box” senior living environment can be frustrating and even impossible. The result is many residents stay isolated and alone in their rooms, leading to serious negative effects on their health and wellbeing. In addition, it’s just harder for staff in larger communities to keep up with residents when there is a large number to watch over. 

But in a smaller, residential home setting, there are usually fewer than 10 residents. For these older adults, accessing the den, kitchen, activity area, or patio is much easier for them—because they are literally living in a home. Everything is in a familiar place and there’s less chance of wandering or becoming confused. 

More eyes on each resident. Senior living safety is enhanced in a residential home in many ways, and the excellent ratio of staff to residents is one important example. With fewer than a dozen residents, there are more eyes on each person all the time. Staff can quickly note changes in a person’s health or wellbeing and take appropriate action as well as notify family members. 

And just like a family watches over one another, the same thing is happening around the clock in residential senior living.   

Familiar home design. There’s comfort knowing you’re close to everything you need. For those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, it’s very soothing to maintain a familiar routine and feel a sense of confidence as they go about the day. In a suburban home setting, life feels familiar, and calming, which contributes to a sense of security. And that leads to peace of mind. 

More motivation to join in. Some senior living communities boast an array of impressive amenities but due to overworked staff, many residents are never able to fully access the activities. Instead, they can remain isolated and health problems are more likely to occur. 

In residential senior living, the intimate, family-style of living means each resident is encouraged to participate in the day’s events. It might be a guitarist on the patio playing holiday songs. A birthday party in the den. Helping staff fold laundry or set the table for lunch. Even joining others for a walk around the neighborhood. Senior living safety is enhanced and families can be reassured their loved one is not being left alone in their room.   

Lower risk of falls. With more personalized attention from each staff member, there’s less chance of a fall in a residential setting, which is very good news. The CDC reports that each year, about three million older adults are treated in emergency departments for a fall injury. And one of every five falls causes an injury, such as broken bone or head injury. 

Residents in a residential home are living on one level, in a home carefully planned and designed to support independence, safety, and accessibility for seniors with a diverse range of mobility needs. 

24/7 staff. Someone is always awake in residential senior living, because specific staff members usually live on-site, as they do at Assured Senior Living. That means night or day, there’s someone close by to offer assistance in an emergency. It’s senior living safety at its best.   

Secure entrance. A residential home in a suburb feels just like a home, but with a key difference: the entrance is secured for resident safety. Solicitors won’t be at the door, and visitors can only enter if admitted by the staff. This also means residents won’t be wandering outside; those who wish to go for a walk or spend time on the friendly front porch will do so under supervision. 

At Assured Senior Living, our neighborhood clusters of resident homes create a small, tight-knit community where members feel at home amongst close friends and neighbors. Those with cognitive and memory challenges quickly learn to self-navigate within our unique community design. They love the sense of comfort and familiarity we provide. 

We’d love to tell you more.