Finding the Right Independent and Assisted Living Options for Seniors

Finding the right assisted living facility for someone you love can be an overwhelming, emotional struggle. Even if they are ready and willing to move to a facility with the resources to take care of them (and not all seniors are), finding a place that is good enough, in the right location, and within your budget can be a challenge.

You don’t have to do it all alone. There are resources out there to help, like the assisted living research institute, which provides a free consultation with a family advisor about options in your area. You could also call a senior living call center, for more information on the process and transition.

If you want to be close, it’s probably a good idea to start with a geographic search. Is there an assisted living facility in your area that would meet all your requirements? A shorter drive to visit can make a big difference to everyone. If you find an assisted living facility nearby that interests you, you can call ahead to arrange a tour or visit an assisted living open house. You can ask “do assisted living facilities provide meals?” and get a full understanding of their resources and support.

Searching for the right living options for seniors can be daunting, but with the right planning and knowledge of elder care, it doesn’t have to be. One of the categories that often stumps people looking into senior living is the difference between independent and assisted living homes. By understanding where these two options for seniors differ, the elderly and their relatives will have a better idea of what they need for their golden years.

If you are currently looking into senior care options for yourself or a parent, you’ll benefit most by knowing the basic aspects of independent and assisted living. Here are just a few of the significant features of each type of living situation in order to help you make the right choice:

Independent Senior Housing

Many seniors want to age in place in their own homes, but this is often difficult on a fixed budget. Some of these seniors also live in older homes that aren’t equipped for seniors living independently, so they may be uncomfortable climbing stairs every day or need guard rails in the shower. Still, despite needing more senior-friendly housing, they may consider themselves active and not want or need a dedicated nursing staff at their disposal. If this is the case, then an independent senior community may be the right answer for them.

In addition to offering housing for seniors, many of these communities also give seniors the chance to interact with others their age. They may live in apartments, townhouses, or their own single-family homes and have access to concierge and other resident services, prepared meals, group classes, day trips, and more.

Assisted Living Options for Seniors

Other seniors, however, may require more intensive care, especially if they have chronic health conditions or mobility issues. These seniors should not live on their own if they have trouble with their daily routines or their own personal care. If this is the case, then they may be candidates for assisted living.

Assisted living homes offer the same community feel of independent living but with more focus on making seniors feel comfortable and cared for. Those who need help managing their health will have access to a nursing staff around the clock. Many of these facilities also have units for seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia to ensure that they are safe and properly cared for.

Have more questions about finding the right kind of senior care for yourself or mom and dad? Leave a comment below, and find a trusted senior home in your area that can walk you through the senior living process. Learn more.