According to the Multisector Plan on Aging, the number of Oklahoma seniors has outnumbered residents under 18 for the first time. And as our senior population continues to grow, and the demand for care options rises with it, the questions weighing the minds of many families are loud and clear:
"What is assisted living?" and "Is it really what my loved one needs?"
At Morada Lake Hefner, we're dedicated to helping seniors live with support and dignity while maintaining independence. We understand how hard it can be to find the right-fit living environment for your loved one. And we are here to support you every step of the way.
Let's explore how assisted living can be the right choice.
Assisted living is a type of senior housing for older adults who are mostly independent but need help with daily tasks. These tasks often include things like getting dressed and taking medications on time and as prescribed.
It's designed for people who don't need full-time medical care, but who could benefit from some support to stay safe and comfortable. This level of care bridges the gap between living at home and moving into a nursing home.
It gives seniors the ability to maintain their independence while also receiving the help they need. Moreover, many assisted living communities daily support for seniors in the form of the following:
At Morada Lake Hefner, our residents live in private apartments, but they're never far from a trained team that's ready to help 24/7. We create care plans based on each person's needs and check in regularly to make sure they're getting the right level of support.
Many families ask about how assisted living is regulated, and that's an important question. In Oklahoma, assisted living communities are licensed and overseen by the State Department of Health. This means there are clear rules in place to protect residents and ensure quality care.
These rules cover everything from safety features and emergency plans to staffing levels and medication management. Communities are inspected on a regular basis, and they must follow strict guidelines to keep their license. If anything falls short, they're required to fix it.
Oklahoma also has two types of licensed senior communities: assisted living and residential care homes. Residential care homes offer basic help with daily needs, but assisted living centers -- like Morada Lake Hefner -- provide a wider range of services.
One of the first questions we hear from families who come in for a tour is: "What does all this cost?" It's an important part of the decision, and we believe in being upfront and clear about what's included.
According to a recent Cost of Care Survey, the cost of assisted living in Oklahoma is over 20% cheaper than the national average. In alignment, the median cost for assisted living in Oklahoma is around $4,822. In general, this fee covers your loved ones:
In addition to monthly rent, a one-time fee, which is often referred to as a community or entrance fee, is common in many assisted living communities. While the specific amount varies from community to community, these fees are designed to cover administrative costs and initial services.
Depending on the level of assistance required -- such as help with medications or mobility -- there may be additional charges. These are determined based on individual care assessments and can vary from case to case.
Once you've made the decision to connect with an assisted living community, the next step is taking that first tour. This is an opportunity for you to get a feel for the environment and see firsthand how the community operates. It's important to be prepared so you can make the most out of this visit.
Start by thinking about the things that matter most to your loved one. The tour is a chance to ask questions, see the space, and get a sense of the atmosphere.
Take note of how the community runs day-to-day. Ask what a typical day looks like for residents:
Ask to walk through the apartments or rooms to see how they're laid out. Are they spacious and well-maintained? Do they have enough privacy for your loved one?
You want to make sure the space fits their needs, whether it's a larger area for mobility or an environment that feels cozy and home-like.
While there, pay attention to the staff's approach. Are they welcoming and knowledgeable, and do they make an effort to answer your concerns? The people caring for your loved one should be respectful and passionate about what they do.
Lastly, an important part of the decision is understanding their care plans and how they evolve over time. Therefore, ask about the flexibility of care services:
Now that we've answered the question "What is assisted living?", you have all the information you need to choose the right community for your loved one.
At Morada Lake Hefner, we're committed to offering more than just care. Our community is designed to enhance your loved one's life through vibrant social activities and a supportive environment. Here, seniors find the balance they need between independence and the support they deserve.
Book a tour of our community to see for yourself. We're here to answer any concerns so you feel confident that you're making the right choice for your loved one.