We all want to live as independently as possible, but sometimes we mix independence up with not needing help from others. We need to challenge this misconception. Saying that only when you don’t need help from others you live an independent life is unrealistic, as everybody requires other people’s assistance from time to time. That is probably why making the decision to move to an assisted living home is difficult.

First of all, living in an assisted living home doesn’t mean losing privacy and independence. They are aware of the importance of having your own space and you will get it. It depends a lot on the home. Some of them provide single rooms and apartments that you can furnish with your own furniture and personal items. The only difference will be that you can get professional assistance in case you need it.

Moving away from family doesn’t mean that you will feel alone. Your relatives can visit you and you will surely make new friends you can spend time with. In a home, you will find people who are about the same age as you, so you will have a lot in common to talk about.

Finally, don’t think that moving to an assisted living home involves giving up your hobbies. Actually, seniors who live in homes are usually more active than those who live on their own. Homes have many facilities and offer different activities such as fitness programs or book clubs. Many of those activities are social, which means that you won’t feel lonely.

Living alone is ok as long as you can do it, and that means not needing assistance too often. However, don’t feel bad if you can’t live by yourself anymore: moving to an assisted living home is not about losing your independence, it is more about keeping you as independent as possible, and independence can only be achieved if all your needs are truly covered, and sometimes that is only possible with the right assistance.