"Assisted Living"
a Common Topic for Inquiries

Inquiries often come to the Masonic Homes at Elizabethtown from people who are unsure of what level of care their loved ones might need. Assisted living is the most common topic for inquiry.

A good description for assisted living would be "assistance within an independent and homelike atmosphere." In an assisted living program, needs are assessed according to the amount of assistance an individual requires with activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, or taking medications accurately. For the person needing assistance, knowing help is there if it is needed is very comforting.

Assisted living (services) is among the fastest growing types of residences requested by seniors who cannot entirely make it on their own, but do not need nursing care. Unfortunately, many seniors wait until they need it before applying for assisted living. Space in the assisted living area at the Masonic Homes at Elizabethtown is extremely limited. The majority of rooms are occupied by residents who were living at the Masonic Homes before needing that level of care. As an integral part of the Masonic Homes' continuing care policy, those residents enjoy the security that their future needs will be met without moving to another facility.

Ideally, assisted living should meet a higher level of daily needs than people can perform for themselves. Smart planning for the future might mean that seniors should consider moving before needs arise. The opportunity to participate in activities and socialize comes more easily when one knows the future is secure. Starting in residential living in Elizabethtown is an ideal way of doing that.

Residential living provides a private living unit with access to shuttle buses, medical and support staff, a variety of activities, and, most important, contentment, safety, and security. Residential living offers several options from which to choose. A single occupant might consider a one-room or a two-room accommodation. Married couples are offered larger units with sitting rooms and bedrooms. Private baths are standard to all units. No rooms have kitchens because meals are included in the residency; but residents are welcome to equip their space with a small refrigerator or micro-fridge.

Planning for the future can start today by calling the Masonic Homes' Admissions and Resident Services Department at 1 (800) 422-1207. The Masonic Homes staff will answer questions or mail a brochure with all of the needed information. You can also e-mail the Department at admissions@masonichomespa.org.