Aging in place for many older adults might not be the best option, and often times the next best solution is a Residential Assisted Living Home or what is commonly known as a “Group Home.” Assisted Living Homes have come a long way in recent year, and the picture in some people’s minds that are not familiar with current options may be somewhat dark and outdated, picturing a house with seniors sitting around on an old couch staring into space with a blaring TV on.
But in actuality, this is not the case anymore… today’s residential Assisted Living Homes are not the possible group homes of old that caused residents to easily feel depressed. Picture a grand entrance way with a contemporary glass swivel door that opens up to a 13,000 square foot house. On the right side of the entryway there is a room that houses a professional Salon, and adjacent to the Salon is an exercise room with huge floor-to-ceiling windows that bring in loads of natural light. The next room is a full-size screen movie theater with individual recliners and surround sound. The open kitchen is immaculate and has a chef that can prepare custom meals to order. The dining room table is also set for the next meal which is pre-ordered by up to ten (10) residents that reside in this beautiful space. The common area of the house has sliding glass doors that incorporates inside/outside living and includes putting greens, fire pits, and a variety of games to play. Each room has its own patio, mini fridge, and coffee maker. The residents can enjoy independent living but know they have assistance anytime when they need it. Many different activities take place daily are customized for the residents. Residents can be in this setting even when they require 24-hour care including bringing in hospice care. Yes, this is the higher-end residential Assisted Living Home, but even for older adults with significant personal care needs that have limited funds or may even have little to no assets and require the help of the state (in Arizona the Long-Term Care Medicaid branch is called ALTCS), there are lovely Assisted Living Homes that provide a quality of living coupled with amazing care.