Independence is important to all of us. As children, we could not wait for the day that we had total freedom. As we age, this does not change; we want to remain in control of our lives.

While the thought of transitioning into an assisted senior living community may sound like you are giving up your independence, it is actually the opposite. Knowing when to transition from independent living to assisted living can help you maintain your independence longer. 

The Pavilion Senior Living offers independent living, assisted living, and other senior living services in Lebanon and Carthage, Tennessee. We understand the value of independence and encourages it at all service levels. We believe that by transitioning into an assisted senior living community at the right time, you will enhance your quality of life while maintaining your independence. 

We want to share signs that it may benefit the health and independence of you or a loved one to transition from independent living to assisted senior living.

Independent Living vs. Assisted Living: What’s the Difference?

The main difference between these lifestyles is the level of care that is provided. 

In an independent living community, individuals enjoy maintenance-free living; cooking, cleaning, and home maintenance tasks are handled, but residents do not receive personalized care. While features are in place to handle wellness and emergencies, independent living residents do not receive additional care and assistance with daily tasks (mobility, bathing, etc.). 

Assisted living provides the same maintenance-free lifestyle as independent living and offers that extra level of assistance and care. 

When an individual is unable to complete the activities of daily living (ADLs), it can have adverse effects on their health and wellness. By transitioning into an assisted senior living community, individuals receive the help and care they need while being encouraged to maintain their independence. 

It May Be Time for Assisted Senior Living If…

An Individual Has Trouble Managing Medication

It is common to have more prescriptions and medications as we age, and these medications must be managed properly. 

These medications are prescribed in a certain way to manage health conditions. If medications aren’t taken properly, at the right time, or the correct dosage, the health condition may worsen or lead to other health complications. This is why proper medication management is so important.

If you or a loved one is taking several medications, it is essential to take them exactly how they are prescribed. Difficulty keeping up with prescriptions and managing or administering medication is a sign that it may be time to transition into an assisted living community.

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) Are Becoming More Challenging

The activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding, are everyday aspects of life. If you or a family member is having difficulty completing these tasks on your own, it could be time to transition into assisted senior living. 

By living in an assisted living community, you or your loved one will receive assistance with these activities of daily living and any additional support needed.

If you find yourself choosing convenience over nutrition when it comes to mealtime or opting not to take a shower because it takes too much effort, consider making the transition sooner rather than later.

An Individual is Experiencing New or Worsening Health Conditions

If you or a loved one is living with a chronic disease or another medical condition, it is important to acknowledge when you need help managing it. If the condition worsens and becomes too much for you to handle on your own, it may be time to consider transitioning into an assisted senior living community. The care and support you will receive will help prevent the condition from worsening further and allow you to live your life to the fullest.

An example of this is diabetes, which is a common health condition among older adults. If an individual does not properly monitor and manage their glucose, diet, and other markings, additional health issues can arise. An assisted senior living community can help monitor this condition, administer medication, and craft a diabetic-friendly diet.

Assisted Living in Tennessee

At The Pavilion Senior Living, our assisted living services in Lebanon and Carthage, Tennessee, focus on helping residents lead active, fulfilling lives and foster independence while providing support in the areas they need it. We encourage resident participation in activities that build companionship, friendship, and support overall wellness. Our highly trained and compassionate caregivers create a personalized care plan that ensures each individual’s needs and preferences are met.  

Our assisted living services include:

• Assistance with the activities of daily living
• Three delicious meals per day
• Housekeeping services
• Safety and security systems
• Activities designed to promote overall wellness

Knowing when to transition from independent living to assisted living can help you or your family member maintain their independence. 

To learn more about The Pavilion Senior Living’s communities and care options, contact a member of our team or visit our website!