The issue of where and how to live safely and comfortably becomes more pressing as people get older. Over time, senior housing alternatives have changed to accommodate a wide range of requirements and tastes. Today, an independent living community is one of the more popular options for seniors.
However, when looking for care for a loved one, you might wonder how this type of community differs from an assisted living facility. Even if they are similar in certain ways, knowing the differences between the two is essential when making decisions regarding a loved one’s future.
What Is an Independent Living Community?
Seniors who can live independently but prefer the ease and social opportunities of community living are the target audience for independent living communities. In this living arrangement, seniors typically can choose from private apartments or cottages. Additionally, these communities include a variety of facilities and services designed for independent, active people.
Some of the benefits of an independent living community include the following:
Residential Setting: These settings offer a residential feel, from the private apartments to the cottages to the grounds that pull the entire community together. Additionally, seniors can enjoy a long list of leisure amenities that keep them engaged.
Autonomy: Seniors can continue to live independent lifestyles in an independent living community. This is crucial to consider when exploring a transition from living in the home they’ve lived in for years. Knowing they will still have autonomy allows them to keep an open mind about the move.
Social Engagement: The chance to socialize is one of the main advantages of an independent living community. This can be done by participating in community events, outings, and more.
What Is Assisted Living?
Seniors who need help with everyday duties but do not require the round-the-clock medical care that nursing homes offer might find the living arrangements in assisted living facilities best for them. These facilities encourage residents’ independence and dignity while providing them with individualized support.
One of the features of assisted living is personalized care plans, which are made for each resident based on their unique requirements and preferences. Assistance with daily living activities (ADLs) like clothing, bathing, taking medications, and moving around may fall under this category. Additionally, although assisted living communities are not hospitals, they frequently have nurses or other medical staff on hand to take care of residents’ medical needs, including scheduling appointments and monitoring their health.
Assisted living facilities, like independent living, also offer changes to engage socially, but seniors often do not have the same amount of freedom they do in an independent living community due to their increased needs.
Choosing the Right One for Your Loved One for Senior Housing
There are a number of considerations to consider while choosing between assisted living and independent living:
Level of Independence: Take into account the senior’s present and projected future requirements for help with everyday tasks.
Healthcare Needs: Determine their medical requirements and whether they need continuous medical supervision or help.
Social Preferences: Assess how social interaction and community involvement contribute to a higher standard of living.
The ultimate objective is to select a living arrangement that respects the senior’s choices and lifestyle while optimizing comfort, safety, and general well-being. For seniors looking for fulfilling and encouraging living situations, an independent living community provides them with the comforts of their own home and allows them to remain independent for as long as possible. However, if seniors need more care, an assisted living facility might be best.
Sources: https://wellingtonplacetn.com/independent-living/
https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/local-care/assisted-living/assisted-living-vs-independent-living
https://www.agingcare.com/articles/difference-between-independent-living-and-assisted-living
Independent Living vs. Assisted Living: What’s the Difference?
If you or an aging loved one is considering a move to Senior Housing in Harvester MO, please contact the caring staff at Avalon Park today at (636) 622-8136.
Avalon Park provides independent living in Cottleville, Chesterfield, O’Fallon, St. Peters, Harvester, Weldon Spring, Saint Charles, Lake St. Louis, Dardenne Prairie, Wentzville, St. Charles County, and surrounding areas.
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