If you do not change direction, you might end up where you are heading…Lao Tzu
Change or status quo? A move to a different lifestyle in later years has many considerations, especially with the loss of a loved one or receiving a life-changing diagnosis. To help guide your transition, it's important to determine what type of facility is best for you and your future.
Independent Senior Living Communities
Independent senior living is a type of housing designed for older adults—usually age 55+—who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own without daily medical or personal care. It’s a good option for seniors who want convenience, safety, and social engagement while still maintaining independence.
- Senior residents must meet age requirements and are expected to care for themselves.
- A variety of apartment designs accommodate individual lifestyles, with residents bringing their furnishings.
- Private retirement funds cover the costs of independent living.
- Utilities, maintenance, building insurance, and property taxes are usually paid by management.
- Amenities (some at no cost) may be garages, transportation, basic cable, Wi-Fi, internet, meals, and housekeeping.
- Residents are responsible for obtaining renters’ insurance.
Assisted Senior Living in Senior Living Communities
Assisted senior living is a type of housing designed for older adults who can live somewhat independently but need extra help with daily activities.
- Assisted living is regulated by each state and will differ from one location to another.
- Care is directed by the resident, family, and physician.
- May have a variety of apartment styles with residents furnishing their own apartments.
- Nurses are required to either be on site or on call 24/7.
- Certified nursing assistants and medication aides are available to assist senior residents.
- Assistance is given for bathing, dressing, incontinence care, ambulation, one-person transfers, and medication management. Level of care is determined by assisted living and the resident's care plan.
- Assisted living communities offer activities including social hours, interactive events, and outings, encouraging resident interaction.
- Meals are provided, often with a menu selection. Special diets, e.g., are not commonly able to be met, but options are provided.
- Residents pay privately, and most long-term insurance may cover expenses. In some cases, Medicaid is accepted. Medicare does NOT pay for Assisted Living.
Memory Assisted Senior Care
Memory-assisted care is a specialized type of senior living designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other memory-related conditions. Memory Assisted Care allows seniors to maintain dignity and comfort while receiving compassionate, specialized support.
- Memory-assisted living shares the same philosophy as an assisted living community, with staff having additional dementia care training.
- Memory-assisted care is regulated by individual states.
- Apartments are either individual or companion style.
- In most communities, residents provide furnishings for their apartments. Families are encouraged to bring familiar items.
- Nurses are on-site or available 24/7.
- A higher staff-to-resident ratio exists.
- Activities and community events are designed for dementia and Alzheimer's.
- Communities are secured to enhance safety for residents.
- Residents pay privately, and most Long-Term Care insurance helps cover expenses. Medicaid may be accepted in some cases. Medicare does not pay for Memory Assisted Living.
Long-Term Senior Care
Long-term senior care refers to ongoing support for older adults who need help with daily activities or medical needs over an extended period of time. Unlike short-term rehabilitation or temporary assistance, long-term care is designed for seniors who require consistent, often increasing levels of support as they age.
- Long-term senior care communities are regulated by the federal and state.
- A higher level of care is met in long-term care.
- Physician orders are followed throughout time in long-term care.
- Nurses and therapists are staffed around the clock.
- Nurses may work in their scope of nursing in long-term care as opposed to Assisted and Memory Care.
- Long-term care provides furnishings.
- Patients may be admitted to a Skilled Nursing Facility after surgery with a goal to return to their former lifestyle within a chosen time period. Medicare will cover costs for a limited time in Rehabilitation for skilled daily services. Private pay and long-term care insurance are accepted for expenses.
When thinking a change is needed, your first call is Bridge to Better Living. Our expert Transition Consultants know that searching for the most appropriate Senior Living is overwhelming and confusing. Bridge to Better Living is here to help you and your loved ones find the right facility for your future. Contact Bridge to Better Living for your No-Cost client consultation today.