Understand the Different Senior Living Options

Life is full of decisions; some big and some small. As we age, we become responsible for more decisions. We try to plan for the unexpected or prepare for decisions we’ll have to make in the future. Deciding where to live after your home is no longer the best fit can be difficult and sometimes beyond your control. Understanding the different options available to you is one of those things you can do ahead of time to make the transition easier.

Options may differ depending on location but, generally, there are a few different choices available to you:

Each option offers its own unique benefits and can usually be toured with a simple phone call. To aid you in your decision and, hopefully, simplify the process, here’s a breakdown of each option and what it has to offer.

Senior Townhomes or Patio Homes:

These homes are typically set apart from the apartments or other senior living buildings. With townhomes or patio homes you’ll enjoy the privacy of your own space and low maintenance living. You won’t have to worry about yard upkeep or home maintenance. Typically, these homes are 55+ so your neighbors are like-minded with common interests. You’ll join a community but still have the benefit of privacy. Many senior townhomes come with garages and are usually single story. There is usually a waitlist for these so the earlier you get your name on the list the better!

Senior Living Apartments:

Senior living apartments are also for people 55 years old or older. You usually have the option of choosing from several different floor plans and amenity options so the apartment really feels like a home. The prices usually align with market rates so you’re not paying more than you would at any other comparable apartment but you get the added benefits of a senior community. You can usually opt in for weekly cleaning or meal plans that make senior living apartments convenient and comfortable. In an apartment community the added amenities in house also provide convenience just down the hall. Forget something at the store? Roads too icy to venture to the store? Many apartment complexes have bistros or pantries where you can buy items—all while never changing out of your slippers! Again, there’s usually a waitlist but there’s no harm in adding your name, even if you decide to go with something else.

Assisted Living:

This option is great for people who might need some help with personal or medical care. You’ll live in an apartment so you’ll still have your own space but you have the option of 24 hour care. You have the freedom to set your own schedule, to come and go as you please, but you’ll also have the comfort of knowing help is there if you need it.

Memory Care:

Memory care is a distinct form of long-term skilled nursing that specifically caters to patients with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other types of memory problems. Memory care offers a residential solution for people who are unable to care for themselves due to progressive memory issues. Beyond helping with daily tasks, the staff at a memory care facility are trained to assist people with dementia or impaired cognition. Memory care is typically more expensive but the care is more comprehensive and designed specifically for patients with dementia or other memory problems.

Nursing Home:

Nursing home living is categorized by various levels of care determined by a comprehensive nursing assessment. Your stay in a nursing care center can be short term; for rehabilitation after an injury, or long term. It depends on what you need. Usually, if you need help with at least four activities of daily living like bathing, dressing, eating, or toileting you qualify for nursing home living. Many facilities have single and shared room options and community dining spaces. This ensures everyone is entitled to their privacy while still allowing the staff to provide appropriate care.

The decision to leave your home is never an easy one but finding the next perfect home doesn’t need to be difficult. Whatever level of care you require or option you choose, senior living communities have something for you. Regardless of which option you deem is best for you or your loved one, every option offers comfort, amenities, services, and community.

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