There was a time when age alone seemed to dictate how we lived our lives. At a certain age, we were expected to start taking it easy and spend our days in our rocking chairs. Today’s seniors have flipped that notion on its head, as they should, and are living longer more active lives than ever before. So, it only makes sense that senior living communities keep up with care options that are as diverse as the needs of their residents. From housing options for seniors who don’t need assistance at all to support when you need it to care for those with dementia to continuing care, here’s what’s available to you or your loved one.
Independent Living
This care option is more about lifestyle than care as it is ideal for active seniors who are able to live independently but seek a vibrant social community without the hassle of chores and home upkeep.
In senior living communities with independent living, you can typically expect:
- A range of floor plans including studio, one and two-bedroom apartment suites
- Maintenance-free living that includes 24-hour staffing, restaurant-style dining, weekly housekeeping, linen service, and transportation
- A variety of social opportunities, activities, and clubs
- Amenities that include concierge services, fitness center, library and onsite beauty salon/barbershop
Assisted Living
This care option offers many of the same services and amenities as independent living, however, in assisted living you also benefit from just the right amount of support to remain as independent as possible while enjoying an engaging, purposeful life.
In senior living communities with assisted living, you can typically expect:
- Care staff available 24/7 and a registered nursing team onsite
- Personalized support with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, eating, and medication management
- The comfort of a homelike setting without the worry of home upkeep, cooking, cleaning and yard maintenance
- Features that include spacious, private accommodations, fitness center, library, and onsite beauty salon/barbershop
- Daily social opportunities through a range of scheduled programs, activities and outings
Memory Care
In terms of care options, memory care is the most specific as it is designed to nurture and support those with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia exclusively.
In senior living communities with memory care, you can typically expect:
- Staff specially trained in the needs and challenges of those with Alzheimer’s and dementia
- A personalized care plan with 24-hour supervision from onsite care staff and a registered nursing team
- A secure, yet calming environment with a structured daily routine
- Activities and social opportunities tailored to each resident’s cognitive abilities
- Features that include comfortable, apartment-style accommodations, housekeeping, and linen service as well as emergency call systems and health monitoring
Skilled Nursing
This is the most intensive care option available. Here you’ll find round-the-clock and/or specialized care such as treating wounds, intravenous (IV) therapy, injections, and catheter care as well as monitoring vitals and medical equipment.
In senior living communities with skilled nursing, you can typically expect
- Care staff available 24/7 and a registered nursing team on site as well as physical, occupational, and speech therapists
- Personalized support with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, eating, and medication management
- Although it is primarily a medical setting, social and recreational activities, as well as dining services and a range of amenities, are also offered
Respite Care
Sometimes you need a temporary care option in order to give caregivers a break, to support recovery after an illness or injury, or simply to try out what life is like in a community setting. This is known as respite care.
In senior living communities with respite care, you can typically expect:
- A short-term stay
- Private, furnished accommodations with three meals a day, social activities, and access to amenities
- Support with activities of daily living from onsite care staff
Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)
CCRCs are senior living communities that offer multiple care options on one campus which allows residents to remain in the same community over time, in most cases. This has benefits such as:
- Rather than having to move from place to place as health needs evolve, you’re able to stay with friends and in the comfort of familiar surroundings
- You’ll maintain continuity in care which provides invaluable peace of mind for residents and their families
- The financial flexibility of paying less for independent living now and then move to a higher level of care if needed later
Keep in mind that CCRCs will typically require an initial entry fee which is an up-front, one-time expense that you might consider as a down payment for your future care, in addition to the monthly fee.
For more information on our senior living communities, download our Senior Living Options Guide today! Or contact us today to schedule a tour.