In addition, research shows that the presence of animals in the lives of older adults is another important way of nurturing the spirit. However important and necessary the move to an assisted living residence might be, it involves significant losses. A residence that has a dog or cat viewed as the house pet can provide opportunity for constancy and daily love for someone who may be feeling a sense of loss. Many residences allow a small animal to accompany its owner in the move. When discussing this option with the staff, gain a full understanding of how the animal will be cared for.
Food is a significant part of life.
We look forward to meals and savor not only the food that we eat but the ambiance in which the food is served. If you polled assisted living residents about what contributes most to their customer satisfaction, food would rank high on their list. One of the universally significant ways in which people feel nurtured is through the food they eat. Keeping that in mind, food preparation should include fresh, diverse, and interesting ingredients. At each meal, residents should have a choice of entree and dessert.