Benefits of Smaller Assisted Living Communities

Donna Nichols • February 4, 2022

When looking for an assisted living community for yourself or a loved one, you may think of the bigger the better; not always the case!

Yes, the larger communities are beautiful, brighter, plenty of room to roam around, but do they have enough staff for the residents?

Are the meals home-cooked?

Are you able to all eat together like one big happy family?

Come along as we tour one of the Smaller Assisted Living Homes in Florida

@roseassistedlivingguide It’s the individual patios for megive me a call and I’ll help you find an #assistedliving perfect for your loved one! 386-847-2322 #agingparent ♬ Paper Birds (3 min) - Jordan Halpern Schwartz
On TikTok? Come connect with us and watch more tours of communities

Why We Love the Smaller Communities

We love the smaller communities because the residents receive more one-on-one care; the staff ratio is usually one, maybe two staff members per resident (usually six residents).

In the larger communities, with such staff shortages, you’re lucky if the ratio is one staff member for each twenty-thirty residents.

Think about those numbers!

We’re not saying anything is wrong with the larger communities, it’s just the care you or your loved one receives in a smaller community can be so much more personal and more often .

There are home-cooked meals in a kitchen where you can sit at the dining room table and talk with the person preparing your dinner.

The smaller communities have a dining room table for six to eight , so it’s like having dinner with your family.

Everyone is together at one place; not all spread around in a great big dining hall.

You get to know each other (residents and staff) more personally and develop friendships and real relationships with these people.

The smaller communities can shop at local fresh markets as opposed to having a supplier have to deliver the fruits and vegetables and such.

This makes options tastier and healthier.

Generally, each large bedroom has a private bathroom ; there are some smaller communities that have shared rooms with shared bathrooms.

This particular one in the video has a private bathroom in each bedroom and as you can see the bedrooms are large and you are able to fit quite a bit of furniture in them.

The fact that they do each person’s laundry individually is a fabulous touch.

Some of the larger communities have you write the residents name in the clothes and they wash them by floors or sections; some of these communities are huge and it would take a lot of time to wash each person’s clothes individually.

Most of the communities, large and small, allow you to bring your own furniture. However, the larger communities seem to have smaller rooms so you may not be able to bring all that you’d like.

The smaller communities are easier to accept all the furniture you want in your room. Having a patio is another great feature; not all offer patios, so if you find a community with a patio, grab it!

The living room area is very large and can accommodate many people. Most of them are equipped with lift chairs as well; if not lift chairs, they have extremely comfortable recliners.

This is especially great for game night which could be so entertaining. Look at all the room for Twister!!

These are just some of the reasons why we at Assisted Living Made Simple love our smaller communities and we think you will love them too! Call us today to schedule your FREE consultation.

How It Works

Learn Your Needs

Assisted living facilities are not one size fits all. We start by learning your unique needs and desires for your next home.

Be There Every Step

From touring facilities with you to helping you navigate the healthcare system, our team will be there will you every step of the way.

Love Your Next Stage

Moving into an assisted living facility is a big change, but with the right placement, you can love your next home.

Our service is complimentary. There is never any cost to the senior or their family . 

Honoring Independence Day with Grace

By Donna Nichols • July 2, 2025
Not every 4th of July needs to burst with fireworks. For many older adults, especially those with tender hearing, health challenges, or a fondness for quieter joys, Independence Day can be just as meaningful in a slower rhythm. It’s the scent of something delicious simmering nearby, the comfort of a cool seat and a cherished show, and the simple dignity of being remembered; of having made it this far, with stories to tell and wisdom that still glows brighter than any sparkler. Caregiver Tips for a Thoughtful 4th: Keep things soft and soothing. Loud sounds can be jarring for seniors with sensory sensitivities, dementia, or PTSD. Choose instrumental patriotic music or old-time radio shows that bring joy without overwhelming them. Build a gentle plate. Soft, easy-to-eat favorites like tender pulled chicken, mashed potatoes, or a festive red, white, and blue parfait (layered Greek yogurt, mashed berries, and crushed graham crackers) keep things celebratory without strain. Spark memories, not stress. Bring out family photo albums, classic Americana films, or even music from their youth. Columbo, The Andy Griffith Show, or golden-age musicals can be a comforting trip down memory lane. Create rest-friendly spaces. A cozy chair near the window, a shaded seat outside, or even a reclined viewing spot for a live TV broadcast of fireworks can help them feel included without fatigue. Let them lead the conversation. Ask about what Independence Day meant to them growing up. You might discover tales of ration books, war bonds, or dancing at VFW halls. These stories are treasures wrapped in the quiet of the day.  In the end, Independence Day is about honoring resilience—the kind that’s quieter, often overlooked, but profoundly enduring. Whether you’re caring for someone, being cared for, or simply holding space for reflection, there’s beauty in choosing peace over spectacle. This Fourth of July, let’s celebrate not just the freedom of a nation but also the freedom to adapt, to rest, and to cherish those we love in the way that suits them best.

Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 4, 2025
Florida's paradise of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and tropical beauty—is also home to one of the most intense annual weather phenomena: hurricane season. From June 1 to November 30, Floridians remain on high alert as powerful storms brew in the Atlantic, each potentially bringing torrential rain, fierce winds, and coastal surges. Understanding hurricane season is crucial for residents and visitors, as it ensures safety and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury. The Impact on Florida Florida has experienced some of the most destructive hurricanes in history, including Andrew (1992), Irma (2017), Ian (2022), Debby, Helene, and Milton (2024). These storms left behind immense devastation, flooding homes, severing power lines, and reshaping entire communities. The economic toll of hurricanes is staggering, affecting local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure. Coastal regions, particularly the Florida Keys and areas along the Gulf Coast, often face the most significant risk. However, inland areas are not immune—wind damage and flooding can wreak havoc miles from the shoreline. Preparing for Hurricane Season Being prepared is the best defense against hurricanes. Here’s how Floridians can safeguard themselves: Stay Informed : Monitor local weather reports and emergency alerts. The National Hurricane Center provides real-time tracking and updates. Create an Emergency Kit : Stock up on essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and extra batteries. Don’t forget important documents and pet supplies! Have a Plan : Know evacuation routes and shelter locations. Discuss emergency plans with family members and establish a safe meeting point. Secure Your Home : Reinforce windows, clear debris from your yard, and consider investing in storm shutters if possible. Hurricane season is a reality in Florida, but with preparation and awareness, residents can confidently weather the storm. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a visitor experiencing the Sunshine State, staying informed and ready is key.  Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—storms may come, but resilience keeps Florida strong.

Weathering the Storm: A Senior’s Guide to Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 3, 2025
Hurricane season in Florida, running from June to November, is a time for preparation, not panic. While these storms bring powerful winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding, a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference—especially for seniors. Taking proactive steps ensures safety, comfort, and peace of mind when the storm arrives. Let’s explore how you can best prepare, stay safe, and recover after the storm. For seniors, hurricanes present unique challenges. Mobility concerns may make evacuation difficult, medical needs require careful planning, and power outages can disrupt essential healthcare devices. Knowing the potential risks helps guide preparation efforts. Flooding: Heavy rain and storm surges can cause rapid water level rises, making roads impassable and homes vulnerable. Strong Winds: Hurricanes can bring winds exceeding 100 mph, toppling trees, damaging homes, and cutting off power. Extended Recovery Time: After a storm, essential services may be limited, making access to food, medications, and transportation difficult. Essential Preparations Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with the following essentials: medications, medical records, flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food, and water (enough for one gallon per person per day) – sufficient for three to five days. Evacuation Plan: Find nearby senior-friendly hurricane shelters that provide accessibility and medical support. Arrange Transportation: If you don’t drive, organize transportation with family, friends, or local emergency services. Communication Strategy: Stay connected with family, neighbors, and emergency contacts. Sign up for emergency alerts through local weather services.  Staying Safe During the Storm When the storm arrives, stay indoors and follow safety guidelines. Shelter Wisely: If you are staying home, choose an interior room away from windows. Monitor Updates: Use a battery-powered radio or phone to stay informed on conditions. Stay Calm: Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety. What to do After the Storm Once the storm passes, careful steps ensure safety. • Assess Damage before venturing outside—watch for fallen power lines or debris. • Seek Assistance for cleanup, repairs, or financial aid through FEMA or community organizations. • Emotional Resilience: Recovering from a hurricane takes time. Connect with neighbors, friends, and local support groups to help ease the process. Conclusion Preparation is the best way to weather the storm—both physically and emotionally. By taking proactive steps, seniors can remain safe, informed, and in control during hurricane season. If you or a loved one needs additional support, contact your local emergency management office or organizations like the Red Cross. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember that every storm eventually passes.
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