Help with daily tasks, compassionate care for those living with dementia or providing support to live your most active and independent life are just a few senior living care options you will discover if you choose to make a community your home.
You may be unfamiliar with all of the opportunities available, but many families are surprised to learn that there is a type of senior living designed to meet almost everyone’s preferences or needed level of care.
If you are considering senior living for yourself or a loved one, the following brief summaries can help you gain a better understanding of which community might provide the best fit.
Senior Living Care Options
Consider the features of each type of senior living to determine the services that would best match your needs:
Senior living care option #1: independent living
For older adults who are looking for a maintenance-free but active lifestyle, an independent living community can be the perfect setting.
You’ll discover a private and accessible residence you can personalize to make your own. On-site activities and social events will provide daily choices. Staying in shape is simple with a fitness center or classes. Making friends is easy with all the opportunities to meet your neighbors.
Along with the scheduled transportation offered and the security features provided in both the community and your residence, you’ll appreciate the added safety that this senior living care option provides.
Senior living care option #2: assisted living
If you or a loved one is beginning to need a helping hand with a few of the daily tasks, an assisted living community offers what is needed to make life easier while encouraging you to remain independent.
These communities also include a private and accessible residence that supports both aging and living well. The staff are there to assist you, for example, with bathing safely, getting dressed or managing your medications.
You’ll also have access to a monthly calendar of activities and social events so you can remain engaged – physically, cognitively and emotionally. Delicious and healthy dining options, fitness opportunities and scheduled transportation are additional benefits. Residents find it reassuring to know that someone is always there if help is ever needed.
Download our free “Staying Home vs. Senior Living” guide to help you make an informed decision.
Senior living care option #3: memory care
For those who are living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, a memory care community may become the home where they can live their most enriched life.
As a progressive disease, many families eventually discover that they are no longer able to provide the level of care needed or to keep their loved one safe. If that occurs, a community that specializes in providing this type of care can be a compassionate answer.
These communities are designed to support a resident’s daily life and freedom of choice while minimizing frustration and anxiety. The staff are specially trained to interact and respond to those living with cognitive impairment. Programs and therapies are also tailored to meet the abilities and preferences of the resident.
Senior living care option #4: skilled nursing
There is another level of senior living that can be appropriate for loved ones who require care and attention around-the-clock, known as a skilled nursing community.
For those adults who rely on others for care and cannot live alone or their needs exceed what the family can offer, this senior living care option may provide their best home.
Residents have access to nursing care or attention for chronic conditions or mobility issues that would make it unsafe or impossible for them to remain at home.
Download our free “Staying Home vs. Senior Living” guide to help you make an informed decision.
