Finding a suitable senior living facility for you or your loved ones can be tiring. Throw in the many living options like independent, assisted, nursing home, and memory care, and it can be overwhelming. But finding the best home in a timely manner is essential when caring for our elderly.
Today’s seniors have a range of choices regarding retirement communities, which all work hard to strike a perfect balance between safety, independence, security, and comfort. However, not all senior living facilities are the same; they differ in terms of assistance, amenities, cost, and other features.
In this article, we will discuss the two most popular types of senior living communities: independent and assisted living. We will explore and differentiate them to help you make an informed decision and enjoy a seamless transition process for you and your loved ones.
1. Living Space
One of the significant factors to pay attention to when choosing a senior living community is the living space. Remember, the resident’s needs play a massive role in determining which facility is right for you.
In Independent living facilities, a range of housing options is available, from single-family homes to duplex cottages, condos, townhouses, and villas. Since it is designed for seniors with more mobility who can live independently and enjoy their freedom, all living space options generally include a kitchen and a bathroom. The housing is similar to any other residency you’d live in, the only difference being that it is located inside the senior care community.
Seniors have a lot of freedom in their day-to-day schedule, but with additional access to various amenities, services, social gatherings, and communal areas. Residents have a chance to socialize with each other in a safe space where they can foster meaningful friendships and enjoy this season of life.
In contrast, assisted living communities typically offer private, semi-private, or apartment-style accommodation. The rooms are generally big, as they are designed with assistance in mind. Grab bars, wheelchair accessibility, and emergency call systems for support are common features.
The living space is designed with all the safety features in mind, such as non-slippery flooring, handrails, locks, and surveillance equipment to minimize any risk of accidents. Moreover, they have wider doorways to facilitate the seniors with wheelchairs or mobility aids. This allows them freedom to enjoy their time safely and securely, all while remaining within a facility that feels like home.
The apartment may or may not include a basic kitchenette. Still, limited equipment is available for safety. Meals are usually provided in a common dining area to encourage socialization and growth. This encourages residents to foster friendship and heart-to-heart conversations for a fulfilling community experience.
2. Amenities
Another thing to consider before deciding on a senior living community is the range of amenities offered. Simply put, amenities are features or services that enhance the quality of life; thus, they must match your needs and preferences so that you can have the time of your life.
Both living facilities usually offer transportation services, various housing options, social activities, group outings, exercise classes, communal rooms, and other shared spaces where seniors can interact with other residents and enjoy engaging experiences.
However, there are also stark differences among them, as they highly depend on the level of care required.
Independent living communities are more flexible regarding recreational and social activities and include various services, such as fitness centers, libraries, movie theaters, arts and crafts studios, swimming pools, and other activities that help adults maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. Most independent living communities also offer on-site dining, like cafes, bistros, or full-service restaurants, where residents can enjoy nutritious, healthy meals at an additional cost as they don’t come under the base rent.
Assisted living facilities include additional amenities and services such as helping with the activities of daily living (ADLs), like bathing, dressing, grooming, or eating. There is also on-site medical care available round the clock, along with supervised nursing staff that helps with medication management and doctor’s appointments, ensuring the best care.
Moreover, three meals a day, according to the resident’s dietary needs, are also included in assisted living facilities at no additional fees, as they are covered in the base rent. Other amenities like increased security and emergency response systems are also available to ensure the safety of residents.
3. Programming
The programming offered in both senior living communities also differs significantly due to the needs and abilities of their residents.
Independent living communities have a robust calendar packed with social and recreational activities tailored to the needs of the resident’s interests. This facility focuses more on seniors’ general fitness and wellness, and a range of exercise and wellness programs are typically offered.
Moreover, some communities also offered educational programs, such as lectures or seminars on health, finance, current events, and more, to keep the seniors engaged and informed. Many cultural activities and gatherings are also arranged, providing residents with various opportunities to socialize and connect with their peers. Group outings to local attractions, such as museums, theaters, libraries, and others are also organized, which gives seniors a chance to explore new things that interest them.
In contrast, programming in assisted living facilities is, again, tailored with assistance in mind, and emphasis is placed on the residents’ physical activity, socialization, and intellectual engagement. Regular exercise is essential and may include gentle stretching, chair yoga, or balance exercises for seniors’ physical health and mobility issues.
Educational programs are also available and are more focused on providing valuable information on memory care, healthy aging, and managing chronic conditions to help residents maintain their health and well-being. Trips to local attractions are also organized, which allows seniors to engage and socialize to foster social connections and meaningful relationships.
4. Medical Care
Choosing the best home requires careful consideration, and medical care is a crucial aspect to weigh. The health services provided by a facility can significantly influence your decision-making process.
As independent living is for seniors who can manage their day-to-day tasks well independently, without needing external help, medical care in this facility is limited to basic first aid. There is no on-site nurse or medical staff available. However, one may be arranged from outside if needed, but at additional costs.
Assisted living facilities provide round-the-clock intensive medical care to residents who may require it. Medical personnel and trained nursing staff are always available to cater to residents’ needs, including medication management, doctor appointments, scheduling, and other tasks that may be challenging for residents to handle independently. Common medical amenities include rehabilitation centers for psychotherapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.
5. Community Design
Independent living facilities are designed to offer seniors a sense of independence and peace. The community design of this facility often features common areas like courtyards, gardens, libraries, or common rooms where seniors can interact with other residents. The goal of this faculty is to provide a space where older people can mingle and enjoy themselves without worrying about mundane tasks.
In assisted living facilities, the community design also features common rooms but is tailored to match the needs of residents. Wider hallways, handrails, non-slippery flooring, and emergency response systems are part of this design to accommodate better seniors struggling with mobility issues.
6. Family Involvement
Family involvement is integral to both independent living and nursing homes. In independent living communities, the primary decision-maker is the resident. However, the family is encouraged to visit as often as they can and actively be a part of the community. They may be invited to social gatherings, resident parties, or other events to peacefully enjoy time with their loved ones in the nursing home. They may even have a sleepover if they want.
While in assisted living communities and nursing homes, family members’ involvement is much more active as they participate in residents’ health and care planning in the nursing home. The authorized relatives also receive updates regarding their loved one’s health and how they are doing in the facility, including the nursing home. Moreover, they are also encouraged to visit seniors and spend quality time with them, offering them love and emotional support in the nursing home. However, some facilities, including nursing homes, have a visiting hour policy, and meetings are only allowed during those designated hours in the nursing home.
7. Cost
Independent facilities, also known as senior communities, offer a lifestyle preference rather than nursing care. They are comparatively more affordable than assisted living options. Upon joining, a one-time fee is charged, followed by monthly rental payments to cover amenities and services, enabling seniors to enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
It’s important to note that these expenses are not covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or long-term insurance. Payment for these facilities is typically made using retirement savings, pension income, social security benefits, or other personal funds.
On the other hand, assisted living communities provide comprehensive and hands-on nursing care 24/7. Consequently, they tend to be more expensive than independent living facilities. Residents are charged a monthly fee that covers rent, amenities, and nursing support. Payment for assisted living can be made through personal funds, family support, long-term care insurance, veteran’s aid, or life insurance policies.
Holly Hall: A Senior Living Community With All Levels of Care
Holly Hall is a premier Christian senior living community located in Houston. Whether you’re looking for a nursing home facility, independent living, assisted living, or short-term rehabilitation, our team provides personalized care tailored to your family’s needs. So you can stop worrying about your parents receiving proper maintenance, and instead, you can feel confident that your mom and dad are safe, happy, and thriving.
If you’d like to see what Holly Hall has to offer or have additional questions about the different levels of care we offer, schedule a tour so one of our team members can show you the grounds and answer any questions you may have!
