Abstract
This essay examines the pros and cons of running an assisted living facility for senior citizens. In addition to discussing the economic, social, and regulatory issues involved, it evaluates the available research on the services and care offered by assisted living facilities (Resnick et al., 2019). It also explores how management procedures in assisted living institutions might be influenced by the key ideals of Saint Leo, namely responsibility and respect. The study makes the case that these principles assure high standards of care, respect for older inhabitants, and the ethical and effective use of resources. The paper’s conclusion includes a few suggestions for bettering management procedures in assisted living homes.
Introduction
There are several benefits to managing a community of assisted living. For instance, it can improve seniors’ well-being by giving them opportunities for social interaction, access to medical treatment, individualized care, and a suitable living environment (Resnick et al., 2019). Assisted living facilities usually include three meals daily, light housekeeping, laundry, and mobility to and from doctors or government appointments. Residents in assisted living facilities have cared for many common everyday tasks1. Older people who relocate to an assisted living facility will get access to various care services, including housekeeping, meal preparation, assistance with bathing, clothing, and other personal needs, and access to medical services as needed.
Benefits of Assisted living communities
The antiseptic, impersonal atmosphere typical of hospital and nursing home settings is not present in assisted living facilities. Even though each assisted living home is unique in its layout and architecture, most have a cozy atmosphere3. The tranquility of mind that it gives patients and their families is one of the most significant benefits of having a supportive staff in a facility that provides assisted living. The tension and worry that are frequently associated with aging can be reduced by realizing that there will constantly be someone around to assist with any requirements or worries.
Residents are safeguarded by onsite employees who are available around the clock and by security precautions against slips, trips, break-ins, and other emergencies. Many neighborhoods provide inhabitants with fun social and recreational opportunities. This can maintain residents’ mental and physical activity and engagement. Communities for assisted living foster connections. Residents have the opportunity to mingle and make new acquaintances with others from similar backgrounds, interests, or hobbies. This may lessen feelings of isolation and loneliness. Many older people can get the 24/7 care they require in assisted living. Residents can get help managing their medications, keeping track of their health, maintaining cleanliness, and other requirements. They can also get medical attention if they need it.
Assisted living alternatives are many for seniors. Assisted living facilities come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from modest to opulent, to suit a range of requirements, preferences, and financial constraints. In assisted living, seniors have privacy. Residents may select the apartment or room of their choice, design it any way they like, and have their private area. They may choose when to interact with others or participate in activities in their free time and will (Pirhonen, 2017).
Disadvantages of Running an Assisted Living Community
It might be difficult to run a community of assisted living as there is less freedom for residents compared to individuals who live alone, which is one of the drawbacks of maintaining an assisted living facility. Seniors might need to abide by the community’s rules and regulations, and they might need to ask the staff for assistance with everyday tasks. Maintaining regulatory compliance in every facet of their facilities is likewise quite demanding (Dobbs et al., 2020). Additionally, more resources are needed in contrast to nursing homes, a smaller staff-to-resident ratio, and no onsite trained nurses or doctors. This industry draws unskilled and disinterested individuals because there need to be more resources to pay competent workers competitive wages.
Certification Requirements of an Assisted Living Community:
Most states mandate that managers of assisted living facilities hold a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration or a closely related subject, as well as a license or certification relevant to their jurisdiction. Additionally, certain states could demand extra education or study in corporate management, healthcare legislation, or gerontology.
Federal Regulations Governing the Operations of Assisted Living Communities:
Federal and state laws both control assisted living facilities. Under the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the federal government establishes basic resident care and security requirements. Although state laws differ, they often address issues including staffing educational levels, resident rights, medication administration, and emergency readiness (Carder, 2017). Administrators must keep abreast of these rules to prevent penalties or legal action and ensure their community complies.
Response
Saint Leo’s basic principles of accountability and respect will shape elder care management practices. Financial, human, and environmental assets all fall within the purview of management, and they must be handled with care. This implies making the most efficient and effective use of available funds to offer the highest quality of care for the elderly at an assisted living facility. To guarantee that the elderly get the care they need, facilities must have sufficient personnel, education, and tools.
The concept of respect will also influence management practices in assisted living facilities. Managers that value respect will ensure that employees of all ages, races, genders, and walks of life are treated with kindness and consideration. This involves making sure the elderly residents of assisted living facilities are handled with kindness and compassion. All of their basic requirements should be satisfied, and they should feel safe and secure in their space.
In conclusion, these two guiding principles will direct assisted living management operations to provide the highest quality of life for the elderly. Respect for the elderly guarantees they will be treated with decency and compassion, while prudent stewardship guarantees maximum efficiency in resource use. These principles will help to establish an environment of kindness and respect for the elderly in assisted living facilities.
Reference
Carder, P. C. (2017). State regulatory approaches for dementia care in residential care and assisted living. The Gerontologist, 57(4), 776-786.
Dobbs, D., Peterson, L., & Hyer, K. (2020). The unique challenges faced by assisted living communities to meet federal guidelines for COVID-19. Journal of aging & social policy, 32(4-5), 334-342.
Pirhonen, J. (2017). Good human life in assisted living for older people: What the residents are able to do and be.
Resnick, B., Boltz, M., Galik, E., Holmes, S., Vigne, E., Fix, S., & Zhu, S. (2019). Pain assessment, management, and impact among older adults in assisted living. Pain Management Nursing, 20(3), 192–197.
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