As we reach our twilight years, there are many changes that can occur. For many of us, the idea of change can trigger feelings that make it seem as if we have lost control of our lives. 

So when it’s time to get extra help, we might push against the idea. 

To many people, it feels like giving up our freedoms and independence. The various myths and stories that we often hear about supported assisted living groups can compound this, which can cause many seniors to push back against the idea of moving to an assisted living facility. 

Fortunately, we’re here to shed some light on these myths surrounding assisted living. Read on to learn more!

Myth #1 – Assisted Living is only for seniors who are sick and disabled

When we think about assisted living, most of us picture a retirement community for seniors who are sick or disabled. 

But the truth is that assisted living is not only for seniors who are sick or disabled. They are for everyone.

There are many people in their 20s, 30s and 40s who live in assisted living communities. Many seniors join an assisted living community to have a community, since they have the option for extra help. 

Myth #2 – You will no longer be independent in assisted living 

Many people believe they can’t live independently in an assisted living facility, but you can if you have a wonderful support system and the right attitude!

Assisted living is a great place to live if you want to live in a community, especially if you want to live in a place where you get extra support if you need to, while living an independent life. 

Myth #3 – Assisted living is expensive 

Assisted living is not as expensive as it may seem. It is a myth that assisted living costs a lot of money. The price of assisted living varies depending on the type of care you need and the location.  

The cost of assisted living can range from $3,000 to $5,500 per month in the state of Michigan. However, the cost will also depend on your location, with more expensive areas such as Ann Arbor costing more than less expensive areas such as Battle Creek.

Myth #4 – You can’t make your living space your own 

Assisted living is not a retirement home. It is a place for people who need help with day-to-day tasks, like cooking and cleaning. It is a myth that you cannot make your living space your own in assisted living due to the lack of privacy or independence.

In fact, you can decorate your room and have pets if you want to! You can even have your own kitchen (with staff help) or garden to spend time in when you’re not busy with other activities. 

Some assisted living facilities offer apartments, detached homes, and even ensuite rooms that you can personalize any way you want. 

Myth #5 – The food offered is unappetizing, or you can’t make your own food

It is a myth that you can’t make your own food in assisted living. In fact, most assisted living facilities allow residents to cook, eat and store their own food. 

In assisted living communities, residents who can cook their own meals may do so in their kitchen or in a designated space in the community. 

Further, some assisted living places also have restaurants that make amazing food for their residents. They offer the option to either have a meal in their restaurant or in their rooms, so if you don’t want to come down to the restaurant, you don’t have to.

Myth #6 – You won’t have any opportunity to indulge in hobbies or personal interests

Many people believe that assisted living facilities are all the same and that they don’t offer any opportunities for residents to take part in their hobbies or personal interests. 

This is just another myth. You can take part in a lot of community events, clubs, and hobbies among a host of other things if you have the right care provider and the right assisted living facility!

So if you decide to move to an assisted living community, you don’t have to worry about these myths. Most assisted living facilities are more than happy to have you, or to answer any questions you have.