More than 800,000 Americans live in some type of assisted living community. There are at least 30,000 such communities across the country, with distinct levels of available care, services, and amenities. Sorting out all the options can feel overwhelming.
The good news is that, once you understand the basics of the types of senior living facilities, you can make a more informed decision. This article does just that, along with the distinct advantages of each. Keep reading for information that will help you determine which one might be right for you or your loved one.
Independent Living Communities
One of the most common types of senior living facilities is independent living communities. These are designed for older adults who wish to move from their homes but need a minimal level of medical or personal care services. Independent living communities are ideal for active individuals who lead a maintenance-free lifestyle but are looking for opportunities for social engagement.
Independent living facilities can have different configurations, but most are homes or apartments. In almost all cases, they offer an additional level of safety and security for older adults.
Independent living communities also can offer access to amenities geared toward older adults. These include walking trails or recreational facilities. They may also afford access to health and fitness staff that are trained in geriatric health.
In many of these communities, residents will have the option of dining plans. There also may be the option for some basic level of personal assistance, such as medication reminders or laundry services.
Active Adult Communities
Active adult communities have grown in popularity over the past few decades. These are usually private homes or apartments, often associated with an amenity. Examples include golf courses, swimming pools, and social clubs.
Active adult communities are distinct from independent living communities. They usually lack any type of medical or personal care services. They can be a good option for individuals who are looking for an elevated level of socialization and recreation, but who can live entirely on their own. Many are geared towards couples.
Assisted Living Communities
Assisting living balances independence with more robust medical and personal assistance. They are for individuals who do not require extensive medical care, but need a bit more help than what is provided in independent or active adult communities.
In most cases, residents live in their own private or semi-private apartments. They have access to basic medical services, as well as assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). These include more personalized care for things like bathing, dressing, or medical management.
Like with active adult or independent living, individuals in assisted living types of communities can access a range of social and recreational activities. They will also have access to more specialized health and wellness programs. This includes things like physical or occupational therapy.
Finally, individuals in these communities have access to dining services. This alleviates the need to prepare meals on their own.
Skilled Nursing Facilities
Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) are also sometimes referred to as “nursing homes” or “convalescent homes,” though there can be distinctions. They provide the highest level of medical care among senior living communities.
They are designed for residents with serious health conditions. These include chronic illnesses, injuries, or disabilities, as well as people recovering from surgery.
These also extend to people needing ongoing rehabilitation services. Examples include physical, occupational, or speech therapy.
SNFs provide 24/7 medical supervision and care. Staff includes registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, or certified nursing assistants. Physicians also usually visit residents regularly and oversee their plans of care.
With SNFs, there usually is meticulous oversight of diet and meal plans. This brings a greater level of supervision of dietary needs as they relate to the person’s health goals and treatments.
Memory Care Communities
Memory care communities are designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. They are specialized communities, usually located inside larger faculties.
Memory care communities provide a safe environment for residents. This includes security measures that keep residents from wandering. You will also find around-the-clock monitoring and secure access for guests.
Memory care communities will offer specialized services related to dementia or memory loss. Services include physical activities or cognitive stimulation exercises, like puzzles, games, or reminiscence therapy. There may be programs to promote social engagement and interaction.
Staff will be trained in behavior management. This includes techniques and interventions to manage aggression, agitation, and confusion. They also can provide emotional support, which can help residents feel more secure and valued.
Finally, memory care staff will be able to provide support for the loved ones of residents. This includes offering resources on dementia for family members or friends.
Palliative and Hospice Care
Palliative and hospice care is designed for individuals who are in the final stages of a terminal illness. The primary goal of this level of care is to enhance the quality of life for patients and their families.
This might include managing symptoms as well as providing emotional or spiritual support. Like memory care communities, hospice care services are usually part of a larger senior living campus or community.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities
A final category of senior living includes communities that provide multiple levels of care. These are called continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs). Configurations can vary, but a common arrangement includes the availability of some level of independent, assisted living, and skilled nursing care.
The advantage of CCRCs is that they allow residents to move between the levels of care, as needed. For instance, a resident in assisted living who has surgery may move to skilled nursing for a short time. After rehabilitation, they may move back to an assisted living arrangement.
Learn More About the Types of Senior Living Facilities
Now that you know the basics of senior housing options, you can determine which is best for you or your loved one. Doing a thorough retirement home comparison is vital for leveraging all the benefits of senior living based on your unique needs.
Terra Bella offers various types of senior living facilities, from independent and assisted living to memory care, in Roswell, Georgia. We also have a full calendar of regular events and a wealth of amenities, including walking trails, gardens, libraries, recreational facilities, and more. Reach out to us today to schedule a tour.
