Assisted Living vs. Independent Living

Deciding on the ideal alternative living arrangement for an older adult can be challenging. To make the most informed choice, future residents and their families should ensure they know the details about different living arrangements and what is best suited to their needs.

The understanding of the distinction between independent and assisted living is critical to making your relocation as smooth and pain-free as possible. Seasons Retirement has a variety of care types, including independent living, assisted living, and more.

What is Independent Living?

Independent living communities are there for older persons who can live independently, without the need for daily help, and who choose to live in a community with other residents their age. Independent living communities are mostly made up of apartments or houses. These can be located within a gated community environment.

Often, these communities have a large number of flats and shared or private lodgings for residents. As a result, older adults who sincerely want to enjoy their lives without the responsibilities that come with typical homeownership are drawn to these independent living communities.

These communities meet many people’s needs for services and upkeep. Maintenance chores such as lawn mowing, laundry, housekeeping, and even food preparation are taken care of, allowing residents to spend their time doing things they enjoy rather than worrying about them.

In a retirement community, many of these activities are often conducted in shared areas such as a communal dining room or living room, a swimming pool, and a fitness facility. Alternatively, they can take place in the broader community, such as neighborhood parks, retail complexes, or movie theatres.

What is Assisted Living?

Assisted living is a distinct type of living for older adults and provides a different standard of care than what is available via independent living.

Assisted living provides various services and support to those who need them.

Care homes that provide assisted living services are focused on aiding residents with their everyday routines. They include things like taking a shower, keeping up with one’s cleanliness, moving around independently, managing one’s medications, and eating on one’s own.

You or your loved one may benefit from assisted living if you or they are having difficulty with the aforementioned tasks.

Assisted living locations have staff members who have received specialized training in providing supervision and guidance to their residents. There may be nursing and medical services available at the home as well.

In a nutshell, assisted living emphasizes the additional care that older adults may require to complete their day-to-day tasks.

Who is more suited to independent living versus assisted living?

An older adult would be a good fit for an independent living community if they:

• They are mentally and physically capable of supporting themselves on their own.
• Would benefit from a busy, social environment.
• Do not want to be bothered with home repairs or lawn maintenance.
• Desire to meet other residents and actively look for opportunities.
• Want to have easy access to programs and activities.

People who fit the following specifications should consider relocating to an assisted living home:

• They require some nursing support but don’t need 24-hour medical attention.
• If they prefer to live an active lifestyle but do not have access to transportation.
• If they seek opportunities to socialize with others and make new friends.
• If they feel like they will require additional assistance in the future.
• If they face difficulties doing daily duties, such as clothing and grooming.

In what ways are assisted living and independent living different?

1. Living Expenses

The monthly price for assisted living frequently includes a few hours of personal care per day. The assistance provided can range from washing and clothing to grooming, using the toilet, and administering medications.

The costs of independent living are typically lower since the residents do not need regular care.

2. Medications and other forms of assistance

The majority of independent living residences are often designed for older people who do not require a great deal of support or medical care. However, medical services are often still provided.

Residents in assisted living homes receive assistance with their everyday routines from the personnel. Among most assisted living communities, members of staff and a trained nurse are constantly on call to ensure your comfort and safety when you need them.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between assisted and independent living is critical to you or your loved one’s health, safety, and well-being.

Care requirements vary from person to person–some require more support while others just seek a community. Zero in on what you want before you start the search for a care home.