With 10,000 people turning 65 each day in the U.S., you can imagine the demand for elderly care. While many may need to opt for in-home care, others choose senior living facilities. Luckily, there are several options, so people are able to choose what works best for their needs.
If you’re looking for a living facility for yourself or a loved one, you may feel overwhelmed by the options. Understanding the differences between independent and assistant living facilities is important. Read the guide below to help you understand independent living vs assisted living.
Services and Care Vary in Independent Living vs Assisted Living
These facilities offer services, amenities, and care specialized for seniors. But that care will vary depending on residents’ health and independence. Most people make the decision based on how much help they or their loved ones need on a day-to-day basis.
An assisted living facility offers more extensive care and help with daily tasks. These facilities are best for seniors who need more round-the-clock help. Staff help residents with cleaning, shopping, meal preparation, bathing and grooming, and more.
Let’s compare these needs to those of seniors at independent living facilities. These are seniors who are able to live more active lives, but want or need some added convenience. They may eat at a cafeteria or have help cleaning, but they likely don’t need help bathing or cooking.
More Medical Care Is Available at Assisted Living Facilities
Some seniors choose assisted living because they need routine medical care. Assisted living residents may have Alzheimer’s, diabetes, or heart disease. Staff can help with medication, scheduling doctor appointments, and transportation to appointments.
For residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s, there may be a specialized unit or wing. Facilities design these spaces to provide expert care for residents with cognitive issues. There may be extra security measures in place, and residents won’t have access to a kitchen.
There is usually full-time medical personnel on staff at assisted living facilities. Certified nursing assistants, registered nurses, or even doctors may work at these facilities. They should have received training specific to caring for seniors.
Still, if an independent living resident requires more medical care, they may not have to move. Some of these facilities let residents arrange for outside care at their own cost. This can be helpful for seniors who want to feel more independent, even if they have special medical needs.
Privacy and Contact with Staff Differs Among Facilities
Seniors who choose assisted living often do so because they need easy access to staff. These residents will interact with staff daily and may have little privacy. This can be hard for some seniors, but it’s often necessary for their safety and well being.
Many assisted living residents develop special bonds with their caregivers. Some seniors enjoy sharing their life stories or playing card games with staff. It’s not rare for families of these residents to also become familiar with the staff who care for them.
Residents at independent living facilities have more control over privacy. They may eat in the cafeteria, attend events, or have housekeeping help. Or, they may choose to do their own cooking, cleaning, and socializing.
Entertainment and Social Events Draw Active Seniors to Independent Living Facilities
Many seniors who choose independent living facilities do so to join a community. Or, they may be able to live on their own, but don’t want to be responsible for caring for a home. Independent living facilities offer private apartments, but with a community feel.
There are many opportunities to connect and spend time with other residents. There may be social clubs, sports clubs, and game nights. Many facilities also organize off-site trips, like to movie theaters, malls, and museums.
The community aspect can be attractive for many reasons. Seniors who have lost their spouses often don’t want to live alone, and an independent living facility can help them stay social and active. These facilities are also good for seniors who want to live near others, but don’t want to impose on their families.
Assisted Living Can be Expensive, But There Are Options for Help
Price can make a big difference when it comes to independent living vs assisted living. As with regular housing, pricing can vary based on several factors. Newer, more modern facilities and those with specialized care can cost more.
In general, though, the extensive services at assisted living facilities make them more expensive. Still, there are more options available to help finance care at these places. Long-term care insurance, Medicaid, and employee benefit programs can help offset the expense.
When Family Isn’t Available, Assisted Living Can Fill the Gap
Most of us wish we could help support our parents in their old age, but sometimes that isn’t possible. Older loved ones may need specialized medical care or a living space safe for disabilities. When family members can’t provide this, assisted living becomes an option.
Choosing to place a loved one in a facility is never an easy choice. But the quality of life for a senior in assisted living may be better than in a family home. These facilities cater to seniors’ unique needs and can ensure safety and comfort.
Even independent living facilities can be a better option than living with family. Seniors who are still active and healthy often value their independence. In an independent living facility, seniors can socialize with peers and still enjoy visits with family.
How to Know Which Option Is Better for You
Deciding on a living facility for yourself or a loved one can be tough no matter what. Considering the many options available can make the process even more difficult. We hope that knowing more about independent living vs assistant living can help with your decision.
Take the time to explore your options before making a final choice. Do research, get referrals from others, and schedule visits or orientations at different places. In the end, remember that this decision is unique to your situation, and you should follow your gut.
