Before you and your disabled parent decide which assisted living center is best, consider the level of structured activity available there. Most centers offer at least a few options residents can participate in, but your parent may thrive if he or she has a broad range of activities from which to choose. Review opportunities such as entertainment, educational programs and religious services before making a decision.
Entertainment
Attending showings of movies in common areas appeals to many residents of assisted living centers. Residents also generally enjoy attending concerts by small groups or solo musicians. But be sure to also look for entertainment scheduling that requires more active participation.
A weekly Bingo game is somewhat helpful, but you may find assisted living centers that offer scheduled times to play Scrabble, various types of card games and other games that are mentally stimulating.
Physical Activities
Scheduled strolls around the campus can be ideal opportunities for exercise. Residents in wheelchairs may not technically be able to stroll, but they still appreciate getting outdoors on a regular basis.
Recreation might include dances for residents who are physically able and wheelchair bowling for those who are not as mobile. The residents might have the chance to take part in gentle yoga classes or other types of suitable exercise.
Educational and Creative Programs
Your parent might enjoy wellness workshops, lectures on various topics from guest speakers and book clubs that focus on fiction or nonfiction. A center may offer classes in drawing and painting, photography and creative writing.
Faith-Based Activities
If your parent is active in a particular religious denomination, you may want to seek out a facility affiliated with that denomination -- or at least with the main religion. If this option isn't available or is otherwise unsuitable, look for a place with weekly religious services and related activities, such as group events and studies. That's especially important if your parent won't be able to leave the center to attend services elsewhere.
Group Trips
A facility may offer a weekly or monthly group trip to a restaurant for breakfast or lunch. It might offer group trips to local museums and other points of interest. This may be something your parent would especially appreciate.
Concluding Thoughts
Assisted living communities vary a great deal in what they can offer residents. Until a person starts looking at the differences among these communities, he or she may never realize how many more activities one center offers compared with another. Ask your parent to review the monthly calendars from different assisted living centers and determine which ones are most appealing before planning a move.
Share7 January 2015
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