Exploring Short-Term Stays in Assisted Living: Benefits and Options

According to an analysis from the HHS Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, over 56% of adults over 65 may need long-term care for over five years. Millions more will need it by the time they reach that age.

There's an underrated but related need to consider. What about seniors who need care for less time? What about those who want to start with a shorter stay and then transition to long-term care?

Read on to learn the benefits and options of short-term stays in assisted living communities.

Short-Term Senior Living Options

Short-term care is one of the most flexible senior housing options. The stay length can range from days to several months.

There's also a lot of flexibility in what type of short-term community you choose.

Traditional Short-Term Stays

Short-term senior living is often used after a hospitalization or injury. It gives seniors a safe home to recover. A dedicated staff takes care of all their needs.

Short-term residents have access to all the amenities and recreational programs that long-term residents enjoy. They'll also be able to go on group trips.

Seasonal

Short-term stays in assisted living can also be arranged seasonally.

Perhaps a senior isn't physically able to join in holiday celebrations. They may suffer from seasonal affective disorder.

A change of scenery may be the solution. It gives caretakers a break without requiring anyone to make a long-term commitment.

Trial Stays in Assisted Living

Trial stays in assisted living are a way to try a community out. It allows seniors to sample a community before they commit to a long-term stay.

They can sample the food and dining options to see if they're up to snuff. They could try the amenities and social options to see if they match their interests.

They could also interact with the residents and staff. It's an easy way to spot any problems or miscommunications early.

Services Offered

Short-term residents can access the same services and amenities as full-time residents.

The staff is available to help with what is known in the medical community as ADLS, or activities of daily living.

They can also help with medication management. A recent surgery or hospitalization can come with new prescriptions, and that can be difficult to get used to. The staff will ensure they follow their regimen.

Short-term stays also allow access to group activities and common areas such as:

• Fitness centers
• Entertainment venues
• Dining areas

Benefits of Short-Term Stays

Short-term care gives seniors a community to recover safely. It also keeps them from losing the socialization they need.

Short-term stays also make life easier for caregivers. That's especially true if they have to transition their loved one into long-term care later.

Rest for Family Caregivers

According to the CDC, nearly one in five adults is a caregiver for a loved one with a chronic illness or disability. It negatively affects indicators of health such as:

• Stress
• Depression
• Asthma
• Obesity
• Prevalence of chronic conditions

They get a break when their loved one enters short-term care. It's a way to recover from and prevent caregiver burnout.

They can rest and focus on themselves or their other family members. It can help them better take on the caretaker role when the short-term stay is over.

Supporting Recovery

Recovery after surgery or hospitalization can take a long time. Short-term care helps ensure it goes smoothly.

Supportive staff will always be around to help. They can administer medications, track health, and respond to emergencies.

Promoting Socialization

Loneliness is a major issue in the aging population. Recovering from a surgery or other medical issue can make it even worse. It forces you to stay in one place, which can feel isolating.

Short-term senior housing prevents this isolation. Residents have privacy but are never far from a group activity they can join.

Short-term senior living can even lead to long-term friendships. Seniors can continue to communicate with or visit the residents they met during their stay after they leave.

Bridge to Long-Term Care

Not all seniors who take on short-term stays will require long-term care, but it's easier to start there if their needs change later.

They'll already have a community they feel comfortable in. Families won't have to go through the long process of applying for a new room.

Preparing for Short-Term Care

Preparing for temporary senior care starts with a difficult conversation. Sit the senior down and talk with them about why it's the best choice.

When they're ready, start packing up their belongings. Remember to include:

• Clothing
• Personal items
• Medications
• Keepsakes

Take your loved one on a tour of the community before their stay begins. Let them get a sense of the layout and what it offers.

Choosing Temporary Senior Care

A trial stay is one of the best ways to evaluate a community, but there are other ways. Start researching it like you would any place you would stay at.

Check to see if the community can provide the necessary level of care. Do you need memory care for conditions such as Alzheimer's or dementia?

Take a look at their amenities. How is their dining? Do they provide enough activities to make the stay enjoyable?

Look at their price points. There may be discounts to take advantage of. Certain communities let you customize the cost based on the services required.

When you find the right community, book the short-term stay far in advance. Rooms fill up quickly, especially during the holidays or summer vacation season.

Book a Short-Term Stay Today

Short-term stays in assisted living communities may be preferred for several reasons. The most common is to provide care after injuries or hospitalizations.

They offer a safe community to recover and socialize with others. They also provide rest for caregivers. They're even a great way for seniors to try out a community or eventually transition to long-term care.

The Watermark at Westwood Village allows residents to enjoy the best of West L.A. living. Our community provides therapeutic surroundings, gourmet meals, and high-quality amenities. Contact us to book a stay today.