Elderly find joy in communal housing - "It feels good to have people around"
Communal housing is an attractive option for many elderly people and their families. It enables the elderly to enjoy active, self-reliant lives while receiving the support they need. A rich tapestry of activities and shared dinners contribute to a vibrant social life.
Krister Niemimaa and Kaija Hänninen live in communal housing at the Leppävaara Life and Living Centre for Senior Citizens. Both speak highly of their experience.
Kaija Hänninen has felt at home in Leppävaara for over a year now.
– Due to issues with my legs, life in my previous home in Matinkylä became a struggle. Laundry, cleaning, cooking, and other household chores got overwhelming. I couldn’t manage on my own anymore, Kaija shares.
She is very happy with the communal housing arrangement.
– I brought some of my cherished items to Leppävaara, such as photographs, my table, and the TV, and made the room my own.
In communal housing, residents lead independent lives but can utilize the services they need.
– I love the tasty morning porridge and lunch at the downstairs restaurant, Sokerilinna. For other meals, I have a shopping assistant get groceries for me. I also utilize the laundry, hygiene, and cleaning services.
Kaija notes that one can enjoy complete privacy in their room if they wish. At the same time, she feels that the residents are like one big family.
– It feels good to have people around. One can always find company and fun activities, every day. We have bingo, crafts, baking, and music sessions—just to name a few. Communal housing is a great option if you can no longer manage alone at home, Kaija says and wishes everyone a pleasant autumn.
The nurses are outstanding
Krister Niemimaa has been enjoying his time in Leppävaara since last summer.
– My daughters heard about this great option, and now I’m living here. My previous home was atop a steep hill, and living alone didn't work out anymore.
– I enjoy the restaurant’s offerings and make use of the hygiene assistance service. The nurses are truly outstanding, and my daughters also come to clean my apartment once a week, Krister shares.
Krister enjoys spending time in his peaceful corner, listening to the radio. Occasionally, he likes to go out for a walk or visit the nearby shopping centre on his own. He's also interested in bingo and the gym. For Krister, it’s pleasant to have people nearby.
– Most of the residents here are women, but that’s not a problem in the least. When I arrived to Leppävaara, I was in worse shape. I’ve since perked up, Krister chuckles.
A Balance of Independence and Assistance
Communal housing is a suitable option for individuals who can mostly handle daily activities on their own but still need some guidance, support, or help to get by.
People usually choose communal housing when their service needs exceed what home care and home-based support can offer, but is still less than what 24-hour residential care facilities provide.
In communal housing, clients can select the services that suit their needs and support their wellbeing, much like they would at their own homes. Such services include health check-ups, medication and medical care, assistance with everyday routines, meal services, laundry and cleaning, and the provision of a safety wristband. The wristband enables residents to summon emergency aid when required.
In communal housing, nurses are not present overnight. Should a client require night-time service, their specific service needs (such as visits during the night) are evaluated together with the client.
Clients of communal housing pay rent for their apartments and service fees equivalent to home care fees. Clients pay for their medications independently.
To apply for communal housing, you need to contact Senior Info and undergo a service needs assessment.
Further information: Communal housing for the elderly