The Benefits of Shared Living for Seniors with Dementia

Shared living for seniors: how it could benefit your loved one 

It helps combat withdrawal and reclusiveness 

Mom might always have been a self-starter. Dad loved to work jigsaw puzzles or build birdhouses. But in the past several years, they’ve lost interest in their former hobbies. Left on their own, they can begin to withdraw and isolate. 

Now consider what a roommate can do: your parent sees their roommate going to an activity. Or your roommate invites your parent to join. It’s called “cueing,” and it can stimulate a senior with dementia to join in an activity. The result is more engagement with others, a more active lifestyle, and a better quality of life.   

It promotes socialization rather than isolation 

An older adult with dementia, if left on their own, will withdraw and isolate and most likely remain in their room. But a bedroom has one main purpose— for sleeping and relaxing — not a place to live a life. 

That why shared living for seniors is so beneficial. Seeing their roommate head out to lunch, to a special outing, or even just for a walk will most likely encourage a resident with dementia to do the same.   

It provides more stability in their routine 

Maintaining a healthy routine is especially helpful for a person with dementia. There’s a familiar comfort that feels right, allowing each resident to experience a sense of purpose and control. That translates to being in a better mood, which adds to general wellbeing. 

It helps them stay more active 

The more a person with dementia can engage with others in positive activities, the better. The benefits are both mental and physical. For example, moving about uses muscles, improving strength and balance. This can lead to a reduced risk of falls and better health overall. 

It honors dignity and privacy while encouraging companionship 

Having a roommate does not mean your parent won’t have privacy when needed. For example, if they require help with things like bathing or dressing, the staff will make sure this is accomplished in private and out of view of their roommate. 

It may decrease the impact of sundowning 

“Sundowning” is the term used to describe behavior changes known to accompany the transition from day to night for people with cognitive impairment. Having a roommate and knowing staff members are nearby can reduce sundowning symptoms including confusion and nervousness. It can also decrease the tendency to wander. 

The cost savings of shared living for seniors 

In addition to the numerous benefits shared accommodations offer, there’s another clear advantage: shared living usually costs less—at times, significantly less—than a private apartment. In fact, depending on where a resident lives, a shared space might save you thousands of dollars each year on rent and care costs. 

When all is said and done, shared living can help your loved one feel that they are not alone, while at the same time reassuring you that he or she is well cared for and given the attention they deserve. If you’ve been dreading transitioning your loved one from home into memory care, or you’ve been disappointed by the memory care services offered in a big, institutional setting—Assured Senior Living’s memory care communities are here to offer you the security and peace of mind you’ve been seeking. 

We’ll care for your loved one as a member of our own family, in a setting that feels like home and supports their independence, connection, and fulfillment. They will receive round-the-clock care that’s customized to them—that uplifts and empowers them to live a fulfilling life as a valued member of a tight-knit, supportive community. Let us tell you more. 

The best care for what matters most. Contact us today, or download our free Family Decision Toolkit guide for more information.