Senior Care: Assisted vs. Independent Living

There comes a time in almost every senior’s life when they decide that they no longer want to live on their own.

They may want to find a community of seniors to socialize with, they may no longer want to take care of housework on their own, or they might just want a change of pace.

That’s when it’s time to start looking into senior care options. But which level of care is best?

We’re here to talk about independent and assisted living, two of the first levels of care for seniors. Read on to learn about the differences between these two options.

What Is Independent Living?

When someone is finally ready to move out of their home and into a retirement community, their first option will often be independent living.

Independent living communities don’t provide much in the way of hands-on care. Instead, they function more like normal gated neighborhoods or apartment complexes. They’re just only for people who are of retirement age.

Independent living communities are for people who don’t need significant help with their day-to-day tasks. These seniors want to remain active and social, but they no longer want to take care of their homes. They may struggle with social isolation when they’re at home, so they want to move and be amongst other people their age.

These seniors may have experienced a fall at some point, but they’re still in good health. They may no longer drive their cars or they may just be ready for a resort-style experience as they go through their twilight years.

Independent living communities have staff members nearby to help with general tasks. They manage housekeeping and they’re around to handle emergencies. 

Seniors will have access to plenty of amenities when they live in independent retirement communities. Most of these communities have on-site fitness centers, restaurants, social events, and transportation to local businesses and attractions. 

What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living is another one of the early senior care options. It’s less free-form than independent living, but it’s still great for active and healthy seniors who may just need a bit of extra help.

In assisted living communities, residents usually still get their own private apartments. They’re able to live active and social lives with other residents, but they have caregivers nearby to help them when necessary.

These seniors often have mild health or mobility concerns. They don’t need frequent hospitalization or full-time care. They may need caregivers to help them with bathing, basic grooming, or housekeeping from time to time. 

Assisted living communities also often offer an easy transition to higher levels of care so they can help seniors through the aging process. The best senior care facilities go all the way up to memory care and skilled nursing care.

Seniors will still have access to luxury amenities while they’re in their assisted living communities.

Which Senior Care Option Is Best for You?

If you or a loved one is thinking about moving to a senior care community, it’s important to choose the right level of care.

For seniors who are still active, healthy, and interested in having vibrant social lives, independent living communities are perfect. For seniors who need some extra help around the house, assisted living facilities are a better option.

Tour local senior care communities today so you can find the perfect fit.

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