Maybe it was a fall. Or the inability to clean the gutters and do yardwork on a regular basis. Then again, maybe the new wheelchair doesn’t fit through the doors or hallways of the home. Or, sadly, perhaps it’s the loneliness that descends following the death of a spouse.

The reasons are all-encompassing, but the solution is clear. It’s time to move.

For Erin Layell, licensed nursing home administrator at Friendship Assisted Living in Roanoke, the benefits of assisted living can far outweigh the issues surrounding a senior’s decision to stay put in an aging house. Those who choose to age at home in spite of their issues, Layell said, are more likely to struggle with access to frequent social interactions, medical management logistics, transportation issues and just general assistance with basic household maintenance. In addition, the cost of adding safety features such as handlebars and wider doorways to stairwells and bathrooms in a home can be cost prohibitive.

“Assisted living is a very difficult and emotional choice for most individuals because the very nature of the decision represents the unknown,” Layell said. “When a senior realizes deep down that they truly might need the next step in care, they are naturally reluctant about leaving the only home they’ve lived in for decades. They’re also worried they don’t have the money to cover the move, as well as the fear of losing their independence.”

Layell and her team put those concerns to rest when consulting with people in need of safer, more service-oriented accommodations. Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Friendship offers independent living, assisted living and long-term care options for individuals 55 and older. Currently, more than 1,000 residents call Friendship home.

Residents have access to the campus’s fully staffed on-site medical clinic with a doctor and nurse practitioner who are on call 24/7, transportation throughout the community, a full calendar of activities, social get-togethers, a bistro, fitness center, laundry service and meals. Friendship also provides access to outpatient therapy, short-term inpatient rehab and a transitional care unit.

“Health care is costly,” Layell said. “We have a benevolent fund which is used to provide support to any of our assisted living residents who have been with us for two years or more and may need financial help. This could include anything from a new hearing aid or wheelchair, or perhaps they might need support with the cost of their medication or even help with their cost of care here. Being a nonprofit we are able to help them. That is part of our mission.”

After working at the campus for 10 years, Layell knows well the joy and relief residents feel once they’ve moved on-site.

“It’s just so rewarding to hear the positive feedback from our residents,” she said. “They often describe the calmness and happiness they experience on a day-to-day basis, knowing they can turn their attention to just enjoying their time without worry.”

For more information on Friendship Assisted Living, please visit friendship.us or call 540.900.1496.

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