The search for a senior living community can leave older adults and their families confused about what they want and need. While the good news is that there are many options for today’s seniors, the downside is that having so many choices can be more than a little overwhelming. This is especially true when deciding between independent living and assisted living.
In broad terms, independent living communities focus on helping residents live an engaged, hassle-free lifestyle without the burdens and expenses associated with home ownership. These communities can be a good fit for an active senior.
When a senior needs a helping hand with daily activities or self-care, the next step up in the care continuum is what is known as an assisted living community. Caregivers are on-site around the clock to assist with tasks such as dressing, bathing and medication management.
While both of these types of senior living offer residents an environment that supports quality of life, each is designed to accommodate different needs.
What Is Independent Living?
Independent living is designed with active adults in mind. They provide seniors with a maintenance-free lifestyle and the freedom to pursue their retirement dreams. Because household maintenance is covered by staff, residents have more time to travel, nurture friendships, volunteer, visit the grandkids, reconnect with favorite hobbies and more.
Security is a priority in these communities. That includes not only a physical setting that promotes safety, but also on-site team members who are available 24/7 in case of emergency. For older adults who might be a little anxious about living alone, this benefit offers great peace of mind.
Independent living also offers a wide range of life-enrichment activities and wellness programs. Residents can take part in a variety of daily activities, such as a gardening club, movie nights, a walking group or an art workshop. Many communities also have on-site volunteer opportunities, such as assisting with special events or giving tours to prospective families.
Are There Advantages to Independent Living Communities?
There are definite advantages to independent living communities—living in one during retirement can help you:
- Stay social: Research shows that it’s important to stay socially connected as we grow older. When you have opportunities to participate in both on-campus activities and outings to local attractions, such as the zoo, theater or art museum, it’s easier to stay engaged.
- Keep moving: Another benefit of independent living is that there are plenty of ways to stay physically active. This helps residents avoid the dangers associated with a sedentary lifestyle.
- Make friends: One common challenge for older adults is a decreasing social circle. Independent living provides residents with the sense of community that people often seek during retirement.
- Feed the brain: Alzheimer’s researchers believe that being a lifelong learner helps protect cognitive function. An independent living community provides an environment that encourages people to try new things.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living communities are often described as the best of two worlds. Residents usually have their own private apartment or suite, but caregivers are nearby when assistance is needed. Team members provide support with the activities of daily living, or ADLs. These can include showering, dressing, grooming, toileting and medication management.
Like independent living communities, assisted living helps older adults enjoy their best quality of life through a variety of social and wellness opportunities. These may be modified to accommodate mobility challenges and other age-related struggles.
One important distinction to understand is that assisted living communities are different from nursing homes. People sometimes believe these two types of senior living are the same. Residents in nursing homes usually have complex medical needs that require daily care by nurses and other medical professionals. Those in assisted living communities need assistance, but to a lesser degree.
How Does Assisted Living Benefit Seniors?
Assisted living promotes independence by handling daily tasks that residents couldn’t safely perform on their own. A few of the services most communities offer include:
- Monitoring of chronic health conditions
- Management of medication schedules and prescription refills
- Well-balanced meals and healthy snacks
- Toileting assistance and continence care
- Transportation to and from appointments
- Social activities and wellness programs
- Assistance with personal-care activities like showering, grooming and dressing
Talk to your loved ones about it.
Figuring out what will be right for you may be something you want to talk to your loved ones about before making a move. Although many senior communities offer a continuum – a place where you can remain in the same senior community, but change your level of care, you may find one or the other lifestyles is more suitable. Talking with family and those who care most about your well-being provides a great sounding board to help you make your decision.
Explore your options.
With both independent and assisted living communities across the state of Indiana, ASC likely has a location near you. We invite you to schedule an appointment to visit and learn more about these two types of senior living! We want you to find the best fit for YOU!
