When considering a move to a senior living community, it is essential to understand what level of care is the best fit. Today’s modern and luxurious senior communities offer more care options, more independence, and more carefree lifestyles than ever before. Before choosing, it’s a good idea to assess not only location and amenities but the care options available now and in the future.
Independent Living: total independence – no care required
Independent Living is the perfect choice for healthy active seniors who need no care options but want less work and more play. Leaving the family home behind also means leaving all the upkeep and maintenance (as well as the costs) so that there is more time for enjoying a lifestyle that is not only independent but full of fun.
Senior living communities with Independent Living offer a resort-like lifestyle that includes beautiful home choices, maintenance, security, and plenty of activities and events, transportation, onsite-amenities like hair and barber salons, exercise facilities, chef-prepared meals, activities, and much more. Typically, Independent Living communities are perfect for seniors who need no care options, but want the freedom to pursue retirement plans like traveling, lifelong learning, hobbies, volunteering, and other interests.
Assisted Living: a helping hand close by
For seniors who need help with daily activities, the care options in senior living communities with Assisted Living make them an excellent solution for seniors and their families. In Assisted Living, residents can receive exactly the level of care they need whether it’s help with bathing and dressing, medication management, or assistance getting to and from activities.
Another often-forgotten aspect of senior living communities with Assisted Living is that for seniors who live alone it’s like rejoining the world because there is so much to do, all thoughts of loneliness (and their associated health problems) can go right out the window!
Like Independent Living, Assisted Living residents have lovely housing choices and are able to remain independent to the greatest extent possible, so they can take advantage of all the amenities while knowing they are always safe and secure. Find out more about making the right choice in our blog, “Independent Living and Assisted Living: Which Option Is Best?”
Memory Care: specialized care and attention 24/7, 365
Older adults with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease pose special concerns for families and caregivers. They often forget to eat; personal hygiene can become minimal; they tend to forget who people are; and what medications to take when. And most frightening of all is that they sometimes wander away from home and risk getting lost, injured, or worse.
In this case, senior living communities with Memory Care offer the best care options because residents are secure around the clock, all their personal needs are tended to, and they receive regular nutritious meals. In addition, residents of Memory Care are encouraged to be active, engaged and part of the community. This is especially important because research shows that even as little as one hour a week of social interaction can “significantly improve” the quality of life for people with dementia. Learn all about senior living communities with Memory Care in our blog, “What Does “Memory Care” Really Mean?”
Respite Care: when you need to take a break
Another option for families that need a little time off from caregiving is Respite Care, which can be for a few days, weeks, or months. Residents can enjoy all the benefits and care options of senior living communities, and families can rest assured their loved one is in good hands. For an overview of what to expect, check out the National Institute on Aging’s article, “What Is Respite Care?”
Skilled Nursing: medical care and assistance
For those who have suffered an injury or other serious medical condition, Skilled Nursing care offers medical care options as well as assistance with daily activities to help residents recuperate and regain as much of their abilities as possible. Care is provided by licensed nursing staff and therapists and is generally for short-term rehabilitation.
Continuum of Care Retirement Communities: life plan communities with different care options
For those who want to prepare for all contingencies, Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) or Life Plan Communities offer different care options all in one community so residents can transition from one level to another without ever having to move. CCRCs usually require entry fees which can be a few thousand to a million dollars, as well as monthly costs.
Modern luxury senior living communities like Thrive Senior Living offer seniors a vibrant, active, and safe lifestyle complete with wonderful amenities and care options. For more about choosing the right senior living community, download our Family Decision Guide. Learn more about Thrive’s communities, housing choices and amenities by contacting us today!