Assisted Living in Oregon

Senior Living and Care in Oregon

There have never before been so many seniors living in the United States. The main reasons for this trend are innovations in medical technology and services helping people to live longer and longer and the sizable baby boomer generation beginning their later years. Fortunately, to meet the growing demand for elder care there are several residential communities that offer senior living in Oregon.

Kinds of Oregon Senior Living

There are several different kinds of Oregon senior living to choose from depending on the current and likely future needs of golden agers. Older adults with long term or chronic illnesses and those who are convalescing can get the care they need in nursing homes, or skilled nursing facilities. They are licensed by the state to supply nursing care around the clock along with room and board. Plus, they offer access to specialized care as well as physical, occupational, and other rehabilitative therapies.

While incorporating a belief in promoting independence and dignity in aging, assisted living facilities, also called assisted living communities, encourage the involvement of close friends and family. Older adults get their own semi-private living units or rooms, can take part in recreational activities, and get assistance with tasks of day to day life, including medication management and laundry. Essentially, the best combination of freedom and onsite medical care is found in assisted living facilities.

When their primary caretakers need to be away from the house during the day for work or other reasons, golden agers can get extra care and companionship in adult day care centers, commonly referred to as adult day series. They provide social activities, medical care, and general supervision throughout the day.

Independent living is the type of Oregon senior living that allows for the most freedoms. Residents get their own senior apartments or cottages, can pick from a wide array of services, and can take part in recreational activities that encourage socialization. These facilities are for seniors who are still quite mobile and can mostly take care of themselves. Those who need additional aid will find that congregate housing is a smart independent living alternative.

Continuing care retirement communities are ideal for retirees who want a consistent environment in which to age, since they offer all of the above varieties of senior living in Oregon in one location. Seniors with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and other kinds of chronic memory impairment can get specialized safety measures and treatment in memory care, or Alzheimer's care.

Why Move to Oregon?

Located in the Pacific Northwest region of the country on the Pacific Coast, Oregon is the ninth largest state by area and is home to about four million people. The capital of Oregon is Salem, and the largest city is Portland. The Snake River runs along the state's eastern border, while the Columbia sets the northern boundary. Oregon features a diverse landscape, including abundant bodies of water in and west of the Cascades, a windswept Pacific coastline, high desert sprawling across much of its east all the way to the Great Basin, a volcano-studded Cascade Range, and dense forests.

There are three national park sites in Oregon: John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Parks, and Crater Lake National Park in the southern part of the Cascades. One of the biggest industries in Oregon is tourism.

What Draws Seniors to Oregon?

Oregon has a sizable older population with about 27 percent of the state's residents aged 55 years or over. The cost of living in Oregon is on the high side. However, this is balanced by the low tax rates in the state. In Oregon, there are no sales taxes. This means that when seniors go to the cash register, they pay the amount on the price tag and nothing more.

There are almost 70 hospitals in Oregon. The top one in the state is Oregon Health and Science University Hospital in Portland. It has more than 500 licensed beds and is nationally ranked in five specialties. Other highly rated hospitals in the state are Providence Portland Medical Center, Providence St. Vincent Medical Center, and Legacy Good Samaritan Hospital and Health Center.

There are seventeen Area Agencies on Aging in Oregon. These organizations are designed to give Oregon residents 60 and over the resources, programs, and services they need to remain healthy, safe, and independent. With the dedication to golden agers, the low tax rates, and the abundant natural beauty, Oregon is an excellent choice for senior living.

How to Access Records?

Documented issues with providers are listed in the Database of Substantiated Facility Abuse Complaints