Understanding the Different Types of Senior Communities

•   April 11, 2023
•  Senior Living Tips 

As we age, many seniors may need additional support or assistance with daily activities. Many times, families are tasked with the responsibility of finding the appropriate community for their loved one to live. With many different senior living options available, this can feel like an overwhelming job. In this blog post we break down the most common types of senior living communities and the services they offer. 

Independent Living Communities:

Also known as retirement communities or 55+ communities, these cater to seniors who are relatively independent and require minimal assistance. These communities typically provide a maintenance-free or low maintenance living offering. Additionally, they can provide amenities like pools, fitness centers, golf and social events with others in the community. Being surrounded by like-minded adults who are in similar stages of their life can encourage meaningful relationships with others. 

Assisted Living Communities:

These communities offer a higher level of care for seniors who need assistance with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. A personalized care plan will be developed for the senior to make sure that their needs are met. Scheduled meals and community events also provide important socialization for the senior, similar to Independent Living communities. 

Memory Care Communities:

Memory Care communities are specifically designed to provide care for seniors living with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other cognitive impairments. These communities will provide safe spaces for the senior to help prevent accidents/confusion or a wandering senior. The staff of these communities will be specially trained to deliver the support and care that the senior requires. 

Skilled Nursing Facilities:

If your senior needs round-the-clock medical care, whether due to health issues or recovering from a recent surgery, then a Skilled Nursing Facility is a good option for them. The staff includes licensed care professionals who will work to create a specialized care plan tailored to your senior’s needs. These facilities can specialize in certain types of care. 

It is now common to find a mix of offerings on a community’s campus. These are called Continuing Care Retirement Communities, where you’ll find Independent, Assisted, Memory or Skilled all offered. These communities can be beneficial to seniors and families who understand their senior’s future needs may change and do not want to have to switch from location to location. 

Understanding the different types of communities is the first step in finding the right place for your senior to live. Whether independent living or skilled nursing, keeping a connection with your senior can not only help them adjust to their new setting but also help them build meaningful relationships with far away family and friends.

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