There is a growing demand for smaller, homier assisted living communities that offer a more personalized experience. Residential Assisted Living homes (“RALs”) are boutique by nature. They offer assisted living in a more intimate setting, with fewer residents and a homier atmosphere and are properly seen as a positive development for seniors and their families. This is especially true for residents with memory care issues. These communities offer several benefits over traditional assisted living facilities, including:
- Personalized care: With fewer residents, boutique assisted living communities can provide a more personalized level of care to each individual. Staff can get to know each resident on a personal level, understanding their unique needs and preferences, which can lead to a higher quality of life for the residents.
- Not “home-like.” It is home: RAL communities are designed to provide a home, rather than simply provide industrial scale care. This can be more comforting and familiar for seniors, which can reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
- More flexibility: Boutique assisted living communities often offer more flexibility in terms of care and services. This can include things like customized care plans, more frequent check-ins, and the ability to bring in outside services such as physical therapy or occupational therapy.
- Increased safety: With fewer residents, residential assisted living communities can be more easily monitored and residents more easily kept safe. Residents can be more safe because they generally have a lower staff-to-resident ratio, which allows for more personalized care and attention for each resident. In fact, fewer residents get “lost” and there are fewer falls in small homes in comparison to the larger facilities. Additionally, smaller homes have fewer residents overall, which can reduce the risk of the spread of infectious diseases. The more home-like atmosphere is seen as more comfortable and less institutional for residents. This can be especially beneficial for seniors with cognitive impairments who may be more prone to wandering or getting lost.
Overall, smaller communities offer many benefits for residents and their families. They provide personalized care, a more comfortable and familiar environment, increased flexibility, and improved safety. They provide a home.
What additional benefits do you see in the RAL/Boutique model? What would you like to see? Write to us to tell us about it – send an email to: [email protected] or [email protected].
