5 Reasons Assisted Living Reduces the Risk of Depression for Lonely Seniors

August 23, 2016 by ·

Assisted Living in Chickasaw AL

Choosing assisted living is a great option. It may be difficult for some seniors to reach that decision, but once they do and they move in and settle in, they often realize this was a great choice.Assisted-Living-in-Chickasaw-AL

Many seniors are at an increased risk of dealing with depression due to a number of factors, not the least of which is their reduced ability to do some of the things they enjoy. For example, some seniors may become depressed when they can no longer play golf or do some of those outdoor activities that meant the world to them.

Others can become depressed when feeling lonely and isolated. If they can no longer drive, their friends or other family members don’t live close to them, and they are dealing with these feelings of isolation, the risk of depression can increase tremendously.

Only a medical professional should diagnose depression.

No one, not the closest family member or friend, should diagnose somebody as having depression or not. If there is any suspicion that such a situation is occurring, the senior should be encouraged to visit with his or her doctor immediately.

How assisted living makes the difference in life.

When people are active and surrounded by others who share their common interests or simply understand what they’re going through, it can help combat depression. Here are five reasons why assisted living can actually help reduce the risk of depression for many lonely seniors.

Reason #1: There is plenty to do.

No senior is going to be at a loss for finding something to do. There are activities and plenty of other elderly residents who would be more than happy to spend time with one another.

Reason #2: Lots of new friends.

Most seniors end up meeting many new friends and form lasting relationships when they move into one of these assisted living communities.

Reason #3: There is a variety of activities.

At a quality assisted living community, there are plenty of activities that will be of interest to a wide range of seniors. In fact, most elderly residents at assisted living quickly discover that it can sometimes be difficult to choose what they want to do on any particular day.

Reason #4: A strong support network.

Between staff and other residents, there is a great support network in place. If a senior resident is feeling depressed, anxious, or wary about their physical capabilities, they can contact the staff or even their friends for some support and guidance.

Reason #5: Attentive staff.

As mentioned previously, the staff at assisted living are attentive to the needs of their elderly residents. If the senior needs help getting out of bed, taking a shower, advice, or just somebody to talk to for a moment, they will find plenty to enjoy at assisted living.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Assisted Living near Chickasaw, AL, contact Ashbury Manor Specialty Care and Assisted Living at 251-317-3017.

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About Cindy Johnson

Ashbury Manor’s Administrator since 2008, Cindy Johnson is a long-time expert in the assisted living field. Prior to her arrival at Ashbury Manor, Cindy managed acquisitions and crisis management for existing and new larger senior care project developments for eleven years. As regional manager for an Oregon-based assisted living management company, Cindy was directly responsible for operations for five 50-65 bed assisted living facilities. As manager during the transition to new ownership, Cindy reorganized internal operations and conducted leadership training for Executive Directors. As a result of her management and expertise, one of the company’s facilities (in Ocala, Florida) received a deficiency-free survey, resulting in the lifting of a moratorium on operation.

A nurse for 36 years, senior care has always been Cindy’s passion. Desiring to work more closely with residents, Cindy became a Category II Administrator in 2005. As Ashbury Manor’s Administrator, Cindy understands the complexities associated with dementia and cognitive impairment and she has fallen in love with seniors with dementia or cognitive impairment and their families.

Cindy is Treasurer of the local “Senior Coalition” chapter. She enjoys mentoring new candidates who want to become administrators.

As a 16-bed facility, with Cindy's training and experience, our residents and their families can be sure Ashbury Manor’s carefully selected staff provides the expertise of a larger facility while maintaining the individualized personal care of a small special needs home.
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