Descriptions of senior living options

The decision to move out of a home is one of the most difficult that a person, couple or family makes. Many of us prefer to stay as long as we can in our familiar surroundings, where we have our dependable resources and treasured relationships.

But sometimes a change in health or family status, or the move of adult children, triggers a discussion about living options. We find that most of our residents considered a move several years before they took the big step. In that time, they considered the various options and tried to select the one that best suited their needs and interests.

So what are the options?

Age-restricted or active adult communities (usually 55+) are housing developments or apartments that do not provide any meals, but often offer some social activities and gathering areas such as clubhouses. Since services, meals and utilities are not included, these communities can be less costly than independent living communities.
Independent living communities, also called senior living and retirement living communities, provide private apartments with emergency pull cords and on-site staff 24 hours each day. Generally, these communities have interior hallways, fire sprinklers and elevators. Additionally, independent living includes many non-medical services (prepared daily meals, housekeeping, transportation, activities and utilities) with the monthly rent.
Assisted living communities, sometimes known as Residential Care Facilities, or Board and Care Facilities, are licensed health care facilities that serve seniors who need assistance with daily activities, such as medication management, dressing, toileting and eating, but not skilled nursing care. Fees vary according to the level of care that an individual needs, according to a clinical assessment. Because professional care is available, typically assisted living communities are more expensive than independent living. Some assisted living communities also offer Memory Care or Alzheimer’s/Dementia units.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities offer a continuum of senior living options – independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing – on one campus. Payment plans vary according to the level of care needed, and often include a substantial entrance fee. These communities are typically the most expensive of the Senior Living options described herein.

In addition to these types of communities, seniors may wish to consider contracting with high-quality care providers, which may enable them to live safely and comfortably in a more independent setting.

So how do you know what’s right for you? Just as everyone ages differently, there’s no one perfect living solution that satisfies everyone involved in the decision. What’s most important is to talk about potential benefits and risks, consider ways to limit those risks, and talk to friends who have chosen different kinds of living arrangements.