The Groves of Tustin offers assistance to navigate when help is needed

Whether traveling many miles or merely spending more time with those closest to them, a visit home for the holidays is an annual tradition for many families. Though these visits are often filled with warmth, laughter, and good cheer, it is also a time when adult children come face to face with the increasing and changing needs of aging parents and family members. Each and every January, following the holiday season, senior living communities see an increase in inquiries from concerned family members looking for help and answers. At The Groves of Tustin, appreciation and understanding of this period in adult children’s lives is clearly recognized with assistance and guidance.

“The holidays are a time when families spend more time together. And often, it is during this period that the reality of where a parent or loved one is health wise becomes all too apparent,” said Anna Gounev for The Groves of Tustin. “After the holiday’s we experience a surge in inquiries from families looking at options as they seek new living residences for loved ones, and we are here to help.”

Many times people confuse moving to a senior living community with having to give up all the things they love about life. Thankfully today’s communities are a far cry from those of decades ago. They’re for people who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle, expand their horizons, and spend their days with fewer worries and chores and more time with activities and friendships- taking in all that life has to offer in the golden years.

Before or even after a loved one mentions’ “I’m not ready for a senior living community” consider asking these questions to engage in a conversation about making a move.

- Are you tired of shopping and preparing meals?
- Are you eating well?
- Do you worry about home maintenance?
- How do you feel about your personal safety?
- Do you feel secure in your home?
- Are you paying your bills on time and managing all the mail?
- How is your health these days? Are you getting enough exercise and moving around well?
- Can you get to your appointments easily?
- How much socializing do you do, are you seeing friends and engaging in activities outside the home?
- What are your thoughts about moving into a senior living community?
- What are your concerns?
- If not now, can you suggest a better time to move?

It is important to understand the many choices that make up the new face of senior living in the 21st century. Here is a brief description between the differences in the level of care and services offered in each.

Independent Living

In senior living communities, active older adults continue enjoying private dwellings, control over their own schedules, and freedom to come and go as they choose. Social networking, optional events and clubs, and conveniently located services, such as beauty salons, banks, and technology centers, increase convenience and personal freedom of choice rather than limiting it. Medical, dietary and other help is available when needed.

Assisted Living

An assisted living community is a special combination of housing, personalized supportive services and health care designed to meet the needs — both scheduled and unscheduled — of those who need help with activities of daily living. Assisted living is quickly becoming the fastest growing long-term care option in the U.S. because of its philosophy, which embraces independence, choice and the opportunity for seniors to live enriching lives.

Memory Care

The diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s presents a wide array of emotional and practical challenges for a family. Thankfully, the research and information regarding Alzheimer’s and dementia has led to the establishment of residential options specifically designed to care for those living with memory loss. Many independent and assisted living communities offer memory care areas within their communities. Residents live in a secured space and enjoy an environment and activities coordinated by staff members trained specifically for caring for those with memory impairment.