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My aging auntie (father's sister) lived with us for a while but we finally had to move her to an assisted living facility. Now she is doing so much better, she wants to move back with us. Is this a good idea? Or will she end up with another health problem, decline, and then we'll need to find her another placement? We just don't know what to do.

Many seniors find the services, design, and setting of assisted living situations works very well to help them get back on their feet. The physical environment is set up to get them moving. It's usually a short walk to the dining hall, recreational area, mail room, etc. Taking short walks many times throughout the day has been shown in many studies to be a very effective form of rehab, therapy, and maintenance exercise all rolled into one. Seniors find that with the increased physical activity, they eat better, sleep better, and feel better. Results like your aunt has experienced is a true testimony as to the benefit of living in a retirement community. The environment is designed to meet the needs of older adults with some physical limitations. Short bouts of walking activity at the person's own pace carried out daily and consistently over time seem to be the key to achieving higher physical function. The result is to minimize the impact of physical limitations on daily function for these seniors. That could mean improved quality of life with fewer health problems and greater independence. Perhaps there would be a way to combine a few sleepovers at your home but with most days and nights remaining at the center where she is doing so well. Before making any kind of decisions, arrange a meeting with the staff at the facility where your aunt is currently living. They may be able to help you gain the perspective you need for a decision of this type. They may be able to suggest some ways to help your aunt see the value of staying where so many services are available.

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