Seniors and Their Preferences: Living at Home or in Assisted Living Facilities

There is much debate over whether seniors generally prefer living at senior assisted living facilities or staying at home with family support. While some

Factors Influencing Senior Living Choices

Choosing between staying at home and moving to a senior assisted living facility can be a complex decision. For many, factors such as financial stability, personal preferences, and social needs play a crucial role. Generally, one might think that assisted living facilities offer more structured environments with activities and opportunities for interaction. However, this may not always be the case.

Staying at home with family support can indeed become isolating, especially when family members have busy schedules and multiple responsibilities. The intimacy of family support often diminishes, leading to sporadic interactions. Conversely, senior assisted living facilities provide structured schedules, activities, and social interactions, which can help keep the mind sharp and engaged.

Case Studies and Observations

Based on my personal experiences and observations, it's not easy to generalize about senior living preferences. The three assisted living facilities I have been in contact with are beautiful, well-maintained places with helpful staff. Most individuals would likely love to reside in such facilities if they could afford to. Personally, I would choose to live in one of these facilities.

However, personal preferences also greatly influence the choice. My mother preferred to stay in her own home with my help. On the other hand, I encountered individuals who initially agreed to the idea of staying in their own homes but faced challenges. For example, one woman didn't want another woman—not a relative—at her house. Single men or couples seemed more agreeable. One woman even accused a caregiver of hitting her, even though it wasn't true. This situation made it uncomfortable to leave immediately and face potential police action.

Some women were able to find a home in a place that they actually enjoyed, and they could control who visits or who does not. For instance, I enjoyed the beautiful house in Issaquah, Washington, and one resident, Lorrie, was a good companion, despite her dementia. She even gave me nice hand-knitted slippers as a thank you gift when I left.

Personal Challenges and Adjustments

Not all seniors can stay in their own homes. Although I swore I would never go into senior living, financial and practical realities led me to make this choice. With no family and a noticeable lack of work ethic in the workforce, I had the money to hire help, but no one was willing to work. Currently in senior living, the adjustment has been difficult.

However, I do know a few women of my age and older who are capable of living independently without family support. This indicates that while senior living is often challenging for those who choose it, it is not always normative.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

Ultimately, the decision between senior living facilities and staying at home depends on individual circumstances. Socioeconomic factors, personal preferences, and the availability of family support all play significant roles. While senior living facilities offer structured environments and social interactions, staying at home can provide a level of independence that some seniors value deeply.

Seniors and their families should carefully consider all options and make decisions that align with their unique needs and desires. Whether in a senior living facility or at home, the goal should be to maintain a fulfilling and supported lifestyle in old age.