There are several different types of senior living options available today. Depending on unique circumstances and needs, you or your loved one may feel most comfortable in one type over another. It’s important to explore all your options prior to making this important decision.
Types of Senior Living
There are many different types of senior living facilities available to choose from. The type of facility that is right for you will depend on your unique needs and preferences. Some common types of senior living facilities include independent living communities, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and memory care facilities. Each type of facility offers different levels of care and amenities, so it is important to do your research to find the one that best meets your needs. With so many options available, you are sure to find a senior living facility that is right for you.
Independent Living
Independent living is a term used in reference to seniors who live independently without the need for assistance or care from others. Independent living facilities are housing complexes designed to meet the needs of these individuals and typically include features and amenities that support independent living, such as accessible design, social and recreational activities, and on-site medical care. Assisted living communities are similar to independent living facilities but may also offer additional care and services, such as help with activities of daily living, transportation, and meals. These might be seniors living options for couples who want to live together but have different needs.
Assisted Living
Assisted living is a type of housing designed for adults or seniors who need some help with activities of daily living, but do not require the level of care that is provided in a nursing home. Assisted living facilities provide personal care and assistance with activities of daily living to their residents. Many assisted living facilities also offer a higher level of care for residents who need more help, such as those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. This is called memory care.
Nursing Homes
A nursing home, also called a skilled nursing facility, is a type of personal care service. Nursing homes provide medical care, personal care services, and assisted living facilities for people who require a Registered Nurse to perform daily needs.. Skilled nurses are available 24 hours a day to provide medical care, and personal care services are provided by aides.
Memory Care
A memory care facility is a type of senior living facility that provides personal care, and medical care services to residents with memory impairments. Memory care facilities typically offer a higher level of supervision and support than assisted living or other types of senior living facilities. In addition to basic needs like meals and housekeeping, memory care facilities provide personalized care plans, activities, and programming designed to meet the unique needs of each resident. Memory care communities also typically have a higher staff-to-resident ratio than other types of senior living communities.
Respite Care
Respite care is a type of care that provides temporary relief for caregivers of people who require assistance with activities of daily living. This can be beneficial for both the caregiver and the care recipient. Respite care can be provided in assisted living communities, nursing homes, or other living communities. It can also be provided in the home of the assisted living resident.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)
A CCRC, or continuing care retirement community, is a type of retirement community that provides a continuum of care for residents, from independent living to skilled nursing care. This means that residents can age in place within the CCRC, without having to move to a different type of care community as their needs change.
Within a CCRC, there are typically three levels of care: independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Independent living is for residents who are able to live independently, with little or no assistance. Assisted living is for residents who need some help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. Memory care is for residents who need closer oversight and supervision, such as those who have dementia or are considered a higher level of care resident.
Schedule a Tour of a Gardens Care Community
There are many different types of care communities available to meet the needs of seniors and the people who care for them. Some seniors may feel most comfortable in an independent living facility or a retirement community, while others may need the extra level of support that is provided by nursing home care. If you or your loved one has any questions about your options, be sure to consult with a senior living community. Contact Gardens Care at 303-566-1085 to schedule a tour today.
