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For seniors transitioning into retirement, there are many different lifestyle and care options available. Whether you want to remain independent, have access to light assistance, or even need memory care, there are options out there for you or your loved one. In this article, we’ll cover the different types of senior lifestyles and assisted living options available, so you can determine which one makes the most sense for your needs.
Independent Living
There are many apartment communities that are marketed to seniors but are designed for residents to live on their own independently. These communities may have some amenities or resources available for seniors, but in general, residents live on their own. These apartments are great for seniors who are healthy and want to remain completely independent but need to downsize from a house.
Retirement Communities
Retirement and over 55 communities are similar to independent senior complexes, however, they offer more amenities for seniors and a community aspect as well. These communities are ideal for seniors who want luxury amenities and resources like gyms, parks, and restaurants available on site, but don’t need daily assistance and want to maintain their independence. These retirement communities are also very social and provide residents with plenty to do throughout the day.
Assisted Living
Assisted living homes are similar to retirement communities in the way they are set up, but they offer residents assistance with their daily activities. Assisted living is great for seniors who struggle with mobility issues or other health problems that limit them on a daily basis. Staff at assisted living facilities provide help with tasks such as dressing, bathing, grooming, and walking. Three meals a day are provided, and cleaning and laundry services are usually offered as well. Assisted living facilities usually offer guided activities that keep seniors engaged throughout the day and give them an opportunity to be social. Assisted living facilities do not provide medical care on site, but usually offer help with general health maintenance, such as medication reminders and help exercising. There are even many forms of pet-friendly assisted living available, so you can bring your pet with you for an even more pleasurable experience.
Board and Care Homes
Board and care homes are a form of assisted living, but they are located in residential neighborhoods and have less than 10 residents. Caregivers live on site with seniors and are available all day and night for help. These facilities are very personal and really feel like home, which is why so many seniors love them. For seniors who would like very personalized care or might feel overwhelmed in a larger facility, board and care homes are a great fit. However, they don’t always have as many amenities on site as a larger facility would. Some board and care homes also only offer shared bedrooms, which is a downside for some seniors who prefer more privacy.
In-home Care
If you would prefer to stay in your current home or want to continue living with your family, you may also want to consider in-home care. In-home care provides assisted living services, but they bring the caregivers to you instead of moving to a new facility. In-home caregivers can help seniors with basic daily tasks, and help with things like transportation and running errands as well. In-home care usually isn’t the best fit, however, for seniors who need help around the clock, unless there is a family member at home who can help when the caregiver is not around. (See also: How to Help Seniors Stay at Home Rather than Go to a Nursing Home)
Memory Care Facilities
Memory care facilities or dementia care homes provide services that are similar to what you would find in assisted living, but they are tailored to fit the needs of those with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Memory care facilities are designed to make life more comfortable and less confusing for patients with safe, welcoming spaces as well as caregivers who are specifically trained in memory care.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities
Many senior couples opt for continuing care retirement communities when choosing where to live during retirement. A continuing care retirement community offers independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care on site, and residents can easily transition between them depending on their needs. Residents sign an entry contract and then stay there either for a certain number of years or for life, and then they receive personalized care and housing depending on their needs and preferences. This option allows couples to stay together, and it also provides completely worry-free care for families.
There are so many different options for senior care and lifestyles, so whether you’d prefer to remain independent, want to live in a community, or need personal assistance, there’s something available for you. Start researching senior care options in your community to determine what the best option for you would be.
About The Author:
Holly Klamer loves to write on issues related to seniors, aging, and retirement. Holly is a frequent contributor on many large blogs and online publications.
