Independent Living in Massachusetts

Senior Living and Care in Massachusetts

Getting older is a natural part of being alive. And, as we age, our minds and bodies start to slow down. This makes it more difficult for us to perform the activities of daily living. Sometimes, there are family members or friends available to lend a helping hand, but they are not always available. Fortunately, there are hundreds of residential communities that offer senior living in Massachusetts to pick up the slack.

Forms of Massachusetts Senior Living

Depending on the level of care an older adult needs, there are several different types of Massachusetts senior living. Nursing homes, or skilled nursing facilities, are specifically designed for convalescent seniors and those with long term or chronic illnesses. These communities are licensed by the state to offer room and board, around the clock nursing care, and access to physical, occupational, and other rehabilitative therapies.

Assisted living facilities, also known as assisted living communities, provide the perfect balance of onsite support and independence. While incorporating a belief in promoting dignity and freedom in aging, they encourage the involvement of close friends and family. Assisted living facilities provide seniors with their own private or semi-private rooms or suites, social activities, and personal care services, such as help with bathing and managing medications.

When their primary caregivers must be away from the house for work or other reasons, older adults can get extra care and companionship throughout the day in adult day care services. These centers offer general supervision, medical care, and recreational activities, like day trips and card games.

Independent living is the freest form of Massachusetts senior living. It is designed for golden agers who are still active and can mostly take care of themselves. They provide retired people with their own senior apartments or cottages as well as social activities that promote healthy living. Plus, residents can pick from a full array of services. For those who need additional assistance, congregate housing is the better independent living choice.

Alzheimer's care, commonly referred to as memory care, provides treatment specifically tailored to meet the needs of seniors with dementia, Alzheimer's disease, or other kinds of chronic memory impairment. All of the above varieties of senior living in Massachusetts can be found in one location with continuing care retirement communities. This gives older adults a consistent experience as they progress through their twilight years.

Why Live in Massachusetts?

Located on the Atlantic Ocean in the New England region of the northeastern United States, Massachusetts is the seventh smallest and third most densely populated state in the country with about 6.7 million inhabitants. The capital and largest city in Massachusetts is Boston. In fact, the Greater Boston area accounts for two-thirds of the state's population. Many of the cities, counties, and towns in Massachusetts have names identical to ones in England.

Massachusetts is an important center for the performing arts. Among the world class companies located in the state are the Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra, Boston Lyric Opera, Shakespeare & Company, Boston Ballet, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Springfield Symphony Orchestra, and the Boston Pops Orchestra.

Why Older Adults Appreciate Massachusetts

Massachusetts has a sizable senior population with about 27 percent of the state's residents 55 years of age or older. The tax rates in Massachusetts are right around the national average. However, the cost of living is high in the state. The weather in Massachusetts is comfortable with four distinct seasons, including winters with plenty of snow.

When it comes to disease prevention and health, Massachusetts typically ranks highly among the states. Massachusetts has the second lowest infant mortality rate, the lowest percentage of uninsured residents, and the most doctors per capita. Massachusetts General Hospital is the best hospital in the country according to US News & World Report. Founded in 1811, Massachusetts General is the largest teaching hospital for Harvard University. Other major medical institutions in the state are Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Seniors Stay Active and Engaged in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing the wellbeing and quality of life of its large older population. There are 27 aging services access points in the state. Twenty of these are associated with an area agency on aging. These organizations provide an array of services, programs, and services, to keep retirees healthy, safe, and independent.

With the dedication to its golden agers, the top quality healthcare options, and the array of attractions, Massachusetts is the ideal choice for senior living.