Top Reasons Why Families Turn to Short-Term Assisted Living Stays

As the weather gets warmer, we know that many families are looking to take a much-needed getaway after winter hibernation. The approaching summer months are the perfect time to relax with loved ones or even go on a vacation. If you’re caring for a senior loved one during this time, it might be difficult for you to think of leaving them home alone. At an assisted living community, short-term and trial stays can offer the perfect solution to this dilemma. 

What is a Short-Term Assisted Living Stay?

A short-term assisted living stay, also known as a respite stay, is an option that lets older adults stay at an assisted living community on a trial basis with full access to dining, social programming, and other amenities for as long or short a time as they need. Families often turn to short-term stays if their older loved one primarily lives at home but needs a temporary place to stay. This might be because the family is going on vacation, the primary caregiver needs a break, or they just want to try out assisted living. 

The length of the short-term stay can vary depending on the amount of support needed and any minimum requirements set by the assisted living community. Some providers, like Senior Living Residences, do not require a minimum length, so families have the flexibility to fit a short-term stay into their schedule, whether it’s for 2 days, 2 weeks or 2 months.

Read on to learn more about the top reasons why families choose a short-term assisted living stay, and how it can benefit your loved one. 

Short-Term Stays Give Caregivers a Deserved Break

Serving as your loved one’s primary caregiver can take a physical and emotional toll, as it can be tough to find a work-life balance when you are also tending to their needs. Caregivers often deal with anxiety, social isolation, stress and burnout, and overall exhaustion. Taking just a short break can help prevent caregiver burnout– knowing that your loved one is well taken care of in a supportive assisted living environment can provide peace of mind and simply allow you to de-stress. Taking a break can also provide you with renewed energy and allow you to focus more on giving the best possible care.  

Respite Aids Recovery after a Hospital or Rehab Stay

When older adults are hospitalized or undergoing rehab, they may be discharged earlier than the family would like due to bed availability, insurance reimbursement constraints, or when funds simply run out. When your loved one isn’t quite ready to go home, a short-term stay can serve as a transition point between a hospital or rehab center and home. The community can provide wellness services and additional monitoring to help your loved one recover in a warm and comfortable environment before returning home. Research shows that nearly 20% of seniors return to the hospital within 30 days after being discharged, and recovering in a supportive environment like assisted living can actually decrease that risk.

Use a Trial Stay to Try Out the Assisted Living Experience

Having the conversation about moving to assisted living can be overwhelming for older adults and families. If your loved one is unsure if assisted living is the right fit, experiencing a trial stay before committing to moving in often reassures families that they are making the right decision. It can also help older adults to experience the dining, programming, and social atmosphere of a community ahead of time to ease the uncertainty. Hopefully, they’ll see the benefits, make some new friends and never want to leave!

What a Short-Term Assisted Living Stay Can Offer You

A short-term assisted living stay can be a great solution for seniors and caregivers alike, whether it’s for relaxation, recovery, or to see if assisted living is the right fit. These stays offer a flexible timeline while still providing enriching programming and amenities in a supportive, social environment.