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Assisted vs. NursingQ&A

 

Questions & Answers

What is Assisted Living?

The Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA) defines assisted living as a combination of housing, personalized supportive services, and health care designed to meet the scheduled and unscheduled needs of those who need help with activities of daily living.

At Hearthstone the concept of assisted living is simple. Each resident enjoys the serenity of his or her own space in private accommodations surrounded by their favorite furnishings and treasures. Adding to the warmth and hospitality are gracious living services such as three delicious and nutritious meals daily, transportation services, housekeeping, laundry service, and an enriching schedule of activities and outings. In addition, our trained care giving staff is available 24 hours each day to lend a helping hand whenever needed. Hearthstone also offers a full array of personal and health services including assistance with dressing, bathing, grooming, medications, and escort service to dining and activities.

How is assisted living different from a nursing home?

For decades, nursing homes have been one of the only options for people who needed help every day. These facilities are an institution of American healthcare, and typically provide skilled medical care to the elderly.

Today, there is Hearthstone Assisted Living offering the ideal choice of healthcare, housing, and lifestyle for older adults who may require help with daily living but don't need the skilled medical care provided in nursing homes. Hearthstone offers personal care to residents on a scheduled and even unscheduled basis. Both assisted living and nursing home care are an invaluable part of the community; however, both are very different in the services that are offered and the individuals that they care for. Hearthstone Assisted Living will gladly discuss with you the needs of your loved one and help you make a decision that's right for you.

How do I choose an assisted living community for my mother?

Choosing an assisted living community can be a challenge. However, there are some general guidelines that you should follow as you begin looking for an assisted living community for your loved one. For example consider the following:

  1. Atmosphere: Is the decor attractive and homelike? Did you receive a warm greeting from staff welcoming you? Does the staff call residents by name and interact with them?
  2. Physical Features: Is the community well designed for the resident's needs? Is the floor plan easy to follow? Are doorways, hallways, and rooms accommodating to wheelchairs and walkers?
  3. Medication & Health Care: Does the community have specific policies regarding storage of medications? Assistance with medications? Training and supervision of staff and record keeping? Is self-administration of medication allowed?

Every aspect of Hearthstone Assisted Living, from the physical building to the care and services provided, is designed to make our residents and future residents feel at home—their home.

How is Hearthstone Assisted Living different from other assisted living communities?

The biggest difference with Hearthstone Assisted Living is the incredible value that we offer our residents and their families. One way that we accomplish this is with our value pricing plan. At Hearthstone Assisted Living communities our low monthly rate offers incredible value as our basic service package includes the following:

       Choice of accommodations
      
 Three meals daily
      
 24 hour on-site staff
      
 Medication supervision
      
 Reminders of meals, appointment, and activities
      
 Assistance with bathing, dressing, and grooming
      
 Scheduled transportation to appointments
      
 Housekeeping and linen service
      
 All utilities except private phone and cable

We also create custom service plans to meet the individual needs of our residents.

The ads that I've seen for Hearthstone Assisted Living mention a 'holistic approach' to care. What exactly does that mean?
Although the Hearthstone philosophy of care is centered on fostering maximum independence, optimum health and wellness, and meaningful social experiences, our 'holistic approach' to care takes that even further. This approach to care means that we not only provide for our residents physical needs but that we encompass their full spectrum of needs including their mind, body, and spirit. This approach allows Hearthstone to focus on the wellness of our residents. We've even seen instances of improved health of residents due to this focus. By taking a holistic approach to care, Hearthstone is able to have residents truly age in place within an environment that allows them to lead longer, happier, and healthier lives.
     

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