Aging is a natural process that no one can escape. The older we get, the more our bodies start to experience the effects of aging. Joint pain, a weakened immune system, failing coordination, poor vision or hearing, and many other things can start to materialize as we enter the golden years of our lives.
Although people may age at different rates, no group is immune to this reality. It may feel like celebrities live in a whole different world than most people, with money and fame insulating them from many of life’s struggles. However, no matter how much money these celebrities may have at their disposal, they cannot stop the march of time.
Many celebrities have spent time in nursing homes or other types of assisted living facilities. They still require the extra care that many other seniors do, so they will move into facilities that have the staff and resources necessary to meet their needs. Let’s name a few celebrities, past and present, who have spent time in assisted living facilities.
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Lucille Ball
Most known for her starring role in “I Love Lucy,” which ran from 1951 to 1957, Lucille Ball became a household name as a comedic actress. She starred in many other projects throughout her life, making her one of the most well-known celebrities of her time.
What many people may not know about her is that she spent many of her later years in an assisted living facility, receiving needed care from nursing staff.
Betty White
Betty White may have been one of the most famous elderly actresses on the planet at the time of her death. She made a name for herself on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” as well as “Golden Girls.”
Since those starring days, she has also made appearances in numerous TV shows and movies, winning awards throughout her career. Near the end of her life, Betty White spent time in a nursing home and eventually moved back to her home to receive at-home care.
Gene Barry
Gene Barry was a famous stage actor who also had roles in television. He played leading roles in “The Atomic City” and the original “War of the Worlds” film made in 1953. Gene Barry also performed in many stage plays and television shows, becoming a popular name in the 50s as a result.
Unfortunately, Gene passed away in 2009 and his children sued the nursing home facility where he was living for negligence at the time of a fall that led to his death. His children chose to get help from professionals in their pursuit of damages for the lawsuit.
Michael Jordan
Even one of the most famous athletes in history has not been immune to the need for assisted living. Michael Jordan is best known for being one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
Having won 6 NBA championships in two separate three-peats with the Chicago Bulls, he turned the NBA into a global brand with his play on the court. He often thanks his parents as motivation for his success in basketball and in life, and he is currently involved heavily in charities that bring nursing care to more people.
The Importance of Assisted Living Facilities
The purpose of nursing homes is to make life more comfortable for seniors who need extra medical care. Perhaps it cannot be provided in their homes or they do not have family who can look after their needs. The signs of aging are numerous, from suddenly needing reading glasses to feeling more aches and pains each day. Eventually, you may need help from professional staff to do certain tasks. Or, you may need to be in close proximity to immediate medical care in case something happens. Either way, if aging in place is not an option, then moving into a nursing home may be the best solution to have your needs taken care of by professional nursing staff.
The Risks of Nursing Homes
Although these homes are meant to be safe for elderly individuals, there are some dangers to be aware of. Whether you are moving there yourself or helping a loved one acclimate to this new scenario, a vigilant eye is key. Seniors are among the most vulnerable groups in the population of the United States, which means they could be taken advantage of or have a hard time advocating for themselves. Unfortunately, neglect and abuse are somewhat rampant across the nursing home industry, which can lead to mental and physical health problems for the individuals living in these facilities. When choosing a nursing home for yourself or your loved one, research its history for any instances of abuse or neglect, and always keep an eye out for signs of abuse or neglect.
