Assisted living isn't what you think: Breaking the stereotypes in Calgary

Have you or a loved one been considering assisted living? Perhaps you, or a parent, have experienced challenges living in your current space. The problem is, you don’t want to give up your independence or your home, and you have concerns about relocating to a retirement facility.

It’s completely understandable to have reservations like these, but before you make your decision we’d like to encourage you to dig a little deeper into assisted living communities in Calgary. What if they’re nothing like you imagine them to be?

As a starting point, learning more about the community setting can help you understand the benefits of community living. One study in particular highlights the residents’ enhanced quality of life - demonstrating that residents living in assisted living communities maintain their independence longer, increase their social interactions, and reduce their risk of serious health complications. 

While assisted living communities have evolved over time, unfortunately many people making decisions about senior living are still operating on outdated assumptions of what living in a community is like today. Taking a closer look at the modern lifestyle assisted living offers could completely change how you think about this next phase of life—for yourself or someone you care about.

What is assisted living? The real story

Assisted living is the middle ground between living completely on your own and needing full-time medical care. It's ideal for people who could use some help with daily tasks, but are otherwise able to live and thrive on their own.  

For example, you  might need support with daily tasks like taking medications on time, or require assistance with personal care, cooking, and maintaining your space. Living in assisted living communities means you still can enjoy spending your day pursuing hobbies and socialising with friends and loved ones, and otherwise choosing how you  spend your time.

Assisted living provides support so you live comfortably and safely – you are still in control of making decisions on all aspects of your life, including your health and wellness goals. Assisted living is not completely different than living independently – the important thing to remember about living in an assisted living community is that you have support, but only when you need it – with the bonus of being a part of a community of older adults that you can connect with. 

Another benefit of living in an assisted living community is that as your needs change over time, the level of care will change with you. This means you can feel secure knowing you are able to access support, and will be able to stay in your suite without the need to move.  Also read: Why more Calgarians are choosing senior living earlier than ever.

‍

Common myths about assisted living (and why they're wrong)

Myth #1: You lose your independence 

In most cases, the opposite is true. Great assisted living communities help you maintain your independence by taking care of the things that have become harder to manage on your own. You still decide what you want to do with your day, who you want to spend time with, and how you want to live. You just don't have to worry about whether you remembered to take your medication or who's going to fix that leak in the roof, and instead can focus on what you enjoy.

Myth #2: Assisted living is only for really sick people 

Many years ago, assisted living was considered a last resort, but these days, assisted living communities are inspired by resort living. Many residents are choosing the lifestyle because they enjoy spending time enjoying everything the communities have to offer – engaging programming, beautiful, well appointed amenities, and the vibrant social connections they make with their fellow residents. Today, assisted living communities are populated with active, interesting people who are just like you – excited to enjoy this new phase of life. 

Myth #3: It feels like being in a hospital 

Walking into a modern assisted living community,  you may be surprised at the beautiful decor, the restaurant-style dining rooms, fitness centres, libraries and well-tended gardens. Many have commented that it feels like they’re living in a country club or exclusive community.

Sharyn, a resident at United Active Living, says, “Oh, there’s lots of freedom; there are lots of choices. Too many choices, sometimes you can’t fit everything in.”

Myth #4: It costs way too much 

Initially, the monthly cost can appear shocking. However, if you consider how the costs compare to your overall expenses, including home maintenance, utilities, groceries, housekeeping, property taxes, entertainment, landscaping and snow removal, it’s easy to see the value in making the move. Many communities include meals, activities, transportation, and emergency support in their pricing. It often makes more financial sense than you'd expect.

What a typical day actually looks like

Residents start their day by waking up in their private suite, perhaps enjoying a cup of coffee before they head down to the dining room to chat with friends over breakfast. Next, they might join a fitness class, or maybe they're more interested in the book club meeting that afternoon.

Some residents spend their mornings tending to plants in the community garden, while others prefer working on art projects in the creative studio. There are often outings planned—trips to local museums, shopping excursions, or seasonal activities around Calgary that take advantage of our beautiful city.

No matter your interests, there’s something for you to choose from. The programming calendar is packed with activities, but there’s no rigid schedule or requirement to participate in activities that don't interest you. If you want to spend the morning reading in your suite and the afternoon visiting with your grandkids, you have the freedom to choose how you’d like to spend your time. 

Many residents view the team members as an extension of their family. The wellness team is available to assist you with medications and support, and are available 24/7 for emergencies. The housekeeping and culinary teams get to know you, your preferences, and connect with you on a personal level, while still respecting your privacy and independence. The team is here to support you, and many residents feel more secure knowing help is available if they need it, but don’t feel like they’re being watched or restricted. 

Also read: How “one new thing” in your retirement community in Calgary will enrich your next chapter.

‍

How to make a tough decision

If you're thinking about assisted living for yourself or someone you care about, you know that it’s a delicate and emotional topic, but it’s a conversation worth having before it’s too late, and you’re unable to make a choice. 

While websites or brochures are helpful, visiting communities in person can give you a sense of what you’re looking for in an assisted living community . Walk around, enjoy a meal there, and chat with residents and staff. Ask specific questions about daily life and what kind of support is available, and how to make the transition go as smoothly as possible. Reputable communities are transparent about their services and pricing.

Think honestly about what matters most to you or your loved one. Is it having your own space? Access to activities? Specific types of care? Different communities have different strengths, so knowing your priorities helps you find the right fit.

Don't wait until there's a crisis to start looking. The best time to explore assisted living options is while you can still make a thoughtful, unrushed decision. United Active Living has detailed information about what to expect and how to evaluate your options.

The real story about assisted living

Assisted living today is a far cry from the institutional facilities of years gone by. Today, you have the opportunity to step away from the responsibilities of home ownership and walk confidently into a safe and welcoming community. 

At United Active Living, you can keep living your life the way you want, with purpose and joy, with the support and connection of a community of peers. 

If you've been avoiding this conversation because of old stereotypes, it might be time to see what's actually available in Calgary. You might be surprised by how much these communities have to offer—and how different they are from whatever you've been imagining.

Book a tour of one of our communities to learn more about assisted living that might just change how you think about this next chapter of life.

‍