Exploring Personal Care Options in Pittsburgh? Start With Us
If you're weighing personal care options in Pittsburgh, Discovery Commons Bethel Park should be top of your list. At our beautiful community, you'll find personalized daily support, chef-prepared dining, and excellent amenities, including an art studio, a movie theater/entertainment room, and an outdoor courtyard for relaxation. What's more, our exclusive programs, such as Celebrations Activities and Events, make every day meaningful.
We are located in Bethel Park, close to Pittsburgh, yet with its own distinct character. Recently ranked the Best City in Pennsylvania to move to by Consumer Affairs, this locale is known for its safety, outdoor recreation options, and welcoming atmosphere. At Discovery Commons Bethel Park, we're proud to be an integral part of this outstanding community.
Is There a Difference Between Senior Living and Personal Care?
As you start investigating Pittsburgh elder housing, you'll come across some confusing terminology. The terms senior living and personal care are related, but they're slightly different.
Senior Living
Senior living is the umbrella term used to describe different levels of care in PA and beyond. Senior living choices can include independent living, personal care, memory care, nursing care, and more.
While navigating aging transitions, an older person may at different times need to access different types of senior living communities. For example, if an older person has no care needs, but no longer wants to manage their own home, independent living would be the best option. But if they later need help with one or more of the activities of daily living, the personalized senior plans and support of personal care would be more appropriate.
Personal Care
Personal care is designed for seniors who are mostly independent but need some support. Their needs may include:
- Toileting
- Bathing, grooming, and dressing
- Eating
- Moving from place to place
- Getting into and out of bed
- Managing medication
Personal care communities have a team of caregivers on hand 24/7 to care for seniors' needs. Personalized senior plans are in place for each resident. The key is to provide enough support to allow the resident to remain independent, while not providing excessive support and taking away their autonomy.
What Is the Best Age to Move to Personal Care?
There is no magic age when personal care becomes the best option. Some people remain independent and safe in their own homes into their nineties. Others benefit from personal care at a much younger age.
Signs It Is Time
Instead of thinking in terms of age, consider timing triggers. According to the National Institute on Aging, some clues that an older relative may need extra support include:
- Struggling to cook safely
- Not bathing regularly
- Wearing inappropriate clothing for the weather
- Having difficulty keeping their home clean
- Forgetting to take their medications on time
Dangers of Isolation
Additionally, you may notice your loved one is showing signs of depression or anxiety that are related to living alone. Sadly, many seniors in Pennsylvania are at high risk of social isolation. Loneliness can have a significant negative impact on the physical, mental, and emotional health of seniors.
However, the social activities and reassurance of knowing someone is always there at our personal care community may be just what they need to feel more positive again.
Who Cannot Live in a Personal Care Community?
Personal care at Discovery Commons Bethel Park represents excellent Pittsburgh elder housing for many seniors. However, it is not suitable for all elderly people.
Independent Seniors
Firstly, it would not be the right choice for older folks who are still completely independent. If they do not have any current care needs, independent living would be more appropriate.
Nursing Needs
Personal care is also not the right choice for seniors who have serious health conditions that require daily nursing care or have very significant care needs. Their needs would be better cared for in a nursing community that has medical staff who can provide the level of care they need.
Memory Conditions
Although personal care is not the right choice for seniors with significant memory challenges, at Bethel Park, we are proud to offer a memory care community. Our residents receive the very best care from specially trained staff who understand their challenges and potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Amenities Enhance Residents' Quality of Life in Personal Care Communities?
Modern personal care options like Bethel Park go far beyond basic support. They aim to create an environment where residents thrive, and to that end, they provide a range of amenities.
At Bethel Park, our residents' lives are enriched by our great room - a common living area for lively conversation, our outdoor courtyard and seating area, our art studio with regular classes, and our entertainment room for movies, games, and more. Fitness classes are arranged daily and are tailored to seniors' needs.
Every day, there is a range of activities to engage with. There is no one-size-fits-all approach; residents create their own schedules according to their preferences. This allows each senior to plan an engaging and fulfilling week of activities.
What Meal Arrangements Are Provided in Personal Care Communities?
Although many of our apartments come with kitchenettes, most of our residents choose to enjoy our on-site, restaurant-style dining each day. And who can blame them?
With three chef-prepared meals each day, focusing on local and international favorites, there is always something to tempt you. We use fresh ingredients and prioritize taste and nutrition. Mealtimes are also a great time to get together with friends and catch up on the latest news.
Time to Explore Bethel Park Personal Care Options
At Discovery Commons Bethel Park, our personal care options come under the umbrella of personal care. Our carefully designed apartments are safe, comfortable, and the perfect community to receive support that is tailored to your needs.
Our Pittsburgh location, close to the city, allows you to stay connected with your community and family. Plus, you're close to the outstanding shopping and entertainment The Steel City has to offer.
Are you ready to experience personal care in a prime location? Reach out today to learn more and schedule a tour.