Your Senior
Living Options
As
you begin to consider senior housing for yourself or
a loved one, you may become overwhelmed with the many
options available. How is independent living different
from assisted living? What about continuing care? And
which one is right for your needs?
By starting with a general understanding of the senior housing choices, you can
be better prepared to
make a decision in the best interest of your entire family.
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Independent Living:
For seniors who are still able to live easily on their own, independent living
communities are the best option available. You can enjoy a wide variety of
housing types, from luxury resort-like accommodations to simpler apartments
without having to worry about mowing the lawn or fixing a leaky pipe. Meals
are often provided, the furniture and décor can be your own, and most of the
minor inconveniences that come with home ownership or traditional apartment
renting are eliminated.
Best of all, many independent living communities offer classes, programs and
outings designed to keep seniors active. Whether you'd like to learn pottery,
stay fit through a structured exercise program, or simply enjoy an occasional
outing with your friends, you are likely to find an independent living community
in your area that fits your needs.
Assisted Living:
Seniors who require more assistance with activities of daily living should
explore assisted living communities as a housing option. The services offered
are more specialized and advanced than those of an independent living community,
but are less comprehensive than the full-time care offered by nursing facilities.
Here you'll find assistance offered for needs such as dressing, bathing and
medication management. The goal for most assisted living communities is to
support its residents as much as necessary while allowing them to enjoy the
greatest degree of independence.
Alzheimer's Facilities:
Individuals with Alzheimer's and related dementias have special care requirements.
Alzheimer's facilities can offer care that assists seniors with day to day
activities and provides an environment that helps to diminish confusion and
agitation. Specialty services are provided in a secure environment staffed
with skilled professionals to handle the behavior associated with memory impairments.
Similar to Assisted Living communities, most provide assistance with dressing,
grooming, bathing, and other daily activities.
Nursing Facilities:
The most advanced level of care is offered in nursing facilities. Through the
aid of 24-hour skilled supervision, residents get the help they need to make
it through the routine of daily living. Nursing facilities provide full support
for seniors, with careful monitoring of each resident's individual health
needs.
Continuing Care:
The most comprehensive housing option offered to today's senior is a continuing
care facility, where options ranging from independent living to nursing care
are offered in one community. Seniors can take comfort in knowing that whatever
their future needs may be, they'll find them met in one place without the inconvenience
of moving and readjusting to a new community.
With a new awareness of the options available for senior living, you can now
begin to consider your individual needs and determine which type of senior
community is best for you.
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