What Age Do Most People Need Assisted Living? 

According to data from Consumer Affairs, the average age for assisted living residents is 84. More than half are older than 85, and 30% are between the ages of 75 to 84. Of course, understanding the average for assisted living is helpful, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. After all, everyone ages differently and has unique health concerns that may require varying levels of need for additional care and support. 

Not too long ago, moving into an assisted living facility was strictly based on urgent need. Today, more people are making the move sooner to take part in the benefits of living in a thriving senior community that allows them to enjoy the art of aging well.  

Reasons People Move to Assisted Living 

Across the United States, more than 30,000 assisted living communities provide safe and secure living arrangements for seniors. Here in New York, more than 500 communities provide residents with care and support. Across that diverse range of communities, one thing is always the same: Everyone has their own reasons for being there.  

Data from the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) indicates that receiving help with the activities of daily living (ADL) is a significant attraction. Needing help with bathing, walking, dressing, and toileting are all leading concerns for many people who make the move from independent living.  

However, needing help with ADLs is only one reason for seniors to consider moving. A few other indicators that let you know when it’s time to move to assisted living include the following:  

Worsening Health or Increasing Fragility 

Health concerns and the decline in seniors’ ability to take care of themselves and their homes on their own are among the primary reasons residents move into assisted living. Chronic health conditions like heart disease and arthritis worsen over time, making independent living an ongoing challenge. Signs that loved ones may notice include: 

• Increased falls 
• Unintentional weight loss 
• Slowed walking and diminished activity levels 
• Weakness and exhaustion 

Hygiene Issues 

The onset of dementia and the effects of not feeling their best can make everyday personal hygiene challenging for many seniors. Looking unkempt, smelling less than fresh, and out-of-control laundry can be signals that seniors need more support.  

Financial Problems 

For seniors with dementia, depression, or cognitive decline, working with numbers and keeping up with bills can be difficult. Loved ones may notice that bills are not paid or finances are out of control, all of which are signs that seniors need some assistance.  

Messy Home and Yard 

One of the early signs people notice when their parents or loved ones start experiencing a cognitive decline is an increasing degree of messiness. Whether this is the result of physical or mental impairment, many seniors may have limited housecleaning abilities. Loved ones may notice signs like spills that haven’t been cleaned up, increasing levels of dust and cobwebs, and overgrown outdoor spaces. 

Changes in Mood 

Living alone can be lonely. Add in mood disorders like depression and anxiety, and seniors can end up feeling depressed and hopeless. Loved ones may notice increased sleeplessness, agitation, and a loss of enjoyment in their normal activities. 

Benefits of Moving into an Assisted Living Community 

Everyone deserves to enjoy their golden years. Although seniors may resist the idea initially, they often quickly see the benefits of becoming a part of a community of seniors. Having access to a new pool of friends along with the support and care they need with services like bathing assistance, medication management, and housekeeping can be a game changer. 

Additionally, assisted living communities provide the balance between independence and support that seniors need. Other benefits include the following: 

Social Enrichment  

At Judson Meadows, we don’t just call ourselves a community. We work diligently to ensure that everyone can enjoy a warm, enriching environment. Opportunities to make new friends and participate in activities and community events can help seniors combat loneliness. In a social environment, seniors are often able to be more active, which also supports their mobility and strength. 

Maintenance Free Living 

Assisted living communities take care of all the upkeep. Residents can enjoy beautiful grounds without the need to engage in yard work, although many do enjoy gardening activities. Cleaning, laundry, and other housekeeping duties are handled by staff, freeing residents to enjoy their time and surroundings without worry. 

Nutritious, Delicious Meals and Snacks 

Seniors living alone often struggle with meals. At Judson Meadows, our chefs take nutritional needs into account while creating a menu of meals and snacks that please residents’ taste buds with seasonal ingredients and guaranteed freshness and quality. Mealtimes are an excellent time for residents to gather and engage with one another. 

Aging in Place 

Depending on the assisted living age requirements, residents may move into the community at ages as young as 62. Knowing that they can age in place, with graduating levels of care that advance according to their needs, provides incredible peace of mind for seniors and their loved ones. Judson Meadows is part of the Baptist Health System, which allows our community to help residents age in place longer than many other communities.  

Schedule a Tour Today 

Talking about moving to assisted living can be an emotionally charged challenge. Helping seniors live their best lives and enjoy their golden years safely is of the utmost importance to you and to us. Experience Judson Meadows’ incredible community for yourself. Schedule a tour or contact us to learn more.