Ethel Warshafsky

Let's face it. From the moment we're born, we all start aging. Nevertheless, thanks to increased knowledge and modem science, today we have the opportunity to live well for far longer than ever before. In fact, with proper nutrition, mental and physical exercise, and the love of friends and family, one's golden years can be rich and rewarding.

Certainly the greatest cause of stress for seniors as well as their children is the anxiety that comes into play when older adults start requiring assistance with meals, personal hygiene, shopping and the other activities of daily living. Leaving a parent in his or her home and hiring a live-in companion is one option, albeit a costly one that can quickly drain away life savings. Having parents move in with sons or daughters is yet another choice, although this alternative robs all parties of their privacy. More importantly, both these solutions leave the parent isolated from the all-important peer socialization that promotes a sense of independence and overall well-being.

That's why it is essential to plan for tomorrow by researching senior lifestyles today. Retirement communities allow older adults to live independently within an enclave that provides social and recreational amenities exclusively. This is ideal for active seniors who can easily fend for themselves. If, however, an older adult is mentally sharp but physically frail, an assisted living facility or ALF may be the ideal answer.

An ALF, such as the Sterling, Aventura, is a rental community designed specifically for older adults who want to live independently but require support to maintain that independent lifestyle. While ALF amenities vary from community to community, at the Sterling, the package includes 24-hour medical service with licensed nurses to monitor the administration of medications, plus certified nursing assistants to provide assistance as needed with dressing, bathing, eating and personal hygiene.

Residents live independently in their own private apartment; however, assistance is literally just down the hall, which is a source of comfort for children and parents alike. Additionally, residents don't have to worry about cooking, cleaning and laundry. ALFs such as the Sterling provide three meals daily, in addition to housekeeping, personal laundry service, local transportation and optional linen and towel service. Furthermore, to heighten peace of mind, all maintenance issues are taken care of. So, too, is around-the-clock security, which is essential for resident peace of mind.

Because an ALF operates on a pay-as-you-go monthly rental system, this alternative offers the advantages of asset preservation. No large down payment is required as in the case of continuing care retirement communities or CCRCs, where assisted living and long-term care nursing are provided.

In summary, if you are a senior who is ready to live a hassle-free lifestyle, or if you are the son or daughter of a parent who is starting to need some help with his or her daily routine, check out all the senior lifestyle alternatives. Read the literature. Look into the background of the management company. Consider the credentials of the staff. And most importantly, visit the facility and speak to the residents and their families to get the inside story.

Finally, if you have questions about senior living, please direct them to me and I'll try to answer them in future columns. Write Ethel Warshafsky, Director of Marketing, the Sterling, Aventura, 2777 N.E. 183 St., Aventura, FL 33160 tel 305-918-0000 or fax 305-918-0099. I look forward to hearing from you.