What Are Your Senior Living Options?
These days, seniors have more options than ever when it comes to retirement communities. Some communities offer minimal support for seniors who simply want to downsize, while others offer around-the-clock care for seniors in need of clinical care.
Whether you are looking to make plans for the future or need immediate care, there is a community for you, and knowing the differences between them is crucial to making the best decision.
Independent Living
Independent living is a great option for seniors who don’t require personal care services but are seeking a change in lifestyle that includes more activity and less maintenance. In independent living, seniors can access activities and programming, prepared meals, housekeeping, and home maintenance.
They have more time to enjoy life, explore retirement, and spend time with the ones they love. Best of all, seniors live in a community that allows them to make new friends, have constant companionship, and enjoy amenities that keep them entertained and comfortable.
More seniors are choosing to transition to independent living sooner rather than later because of the convenience and positive lifestyle change.
Assisted Living
Assisted living is intended for seniors who need a little more support with day-to-day tasks as they age. Staff in assisted living communities are available to help residents with activities of daily living, such as:
Bathing
Dressing
Moving around
Walking
Eating
Medication management
Care in assisted living is available at a variety of levels. For some seniors, assisted living means they need occasional or light support. For others, assisted living care could mean around-the-clock attention for short-term recovery or long-term care.
Seniors in assisted living receive personalized care and companionship no matter their needs or how they change over time.
Memory Care
Memory care is a specialized type of care for seniors experiencing memory difficulties, including a diagnosis of memory disorders such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Memory care is provided by staff with specialized training who know how to handle the challenges that come along with memory loss.
Memory care also includes activities that can aid in slowing further memory loss, as well as nutritious meals that are good for the brain. Seniors in memory care will be made as comfortable as possible, and staff will continually work to ensure that residents still have every opportunity to enjoy their retirement.
Choose the Right Option for You
Choosing the right type of care in a retirement community is critical. Not enough care can leave seniors overwhelmed and dangerous. On the other hand, paying for assisted living when care is not needed can be wasteful. Take care in making your decision, and seek help from a professional or retirement community staff in weighing your options.