Which Type of Senior Living Community is Best?

When it’s time to make a change in your elderly parent’s living situation, choosing from the available senior housing options might feel overwhelming. There are options ranging from aging in place to full-time care in a nursing home.

Today, we will explain the differences so you can decide which is the best senior living community for your elderly parent.

• Aging in place
  • Aging in place is a term used to describe when an older person keeps living in their current home instead of moving to a retirement facility. They often modify their current home to address any mobility issues and work with home health care professionals to get assistance where needed.
• Assisted Living
  • Assisted living facilities to provide a special combination of residential housing and supportive health care services to adults for whom living alone or independently is no longer safe. Residents of assisted living facilities typically need additional, but limited assistance with meals, bathing, and medication.
• Independent Living
  • An independent community, often referred to as a retirement community usually appeals to an older crowd. Independent communities offer social opportunities, easy-to-manage accommodations, senior-friendly surroundings, transportation options, and living in a community with peers, typically 55 and older. This option is best suited for fit and active seniors who may be looking to downsize after retirement or snowbirds who want to travel frequently.

• Memory Care
  • Memory care, sometimes called Alzheimer’s care, provides 24-hour care for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Memory care facilities offer a safe, uniquely designed environment for residents, focusing on improving quality of life, reducing confusion, and preventing wandering.
• Respite Care
  • Most assisted living communities offer short-term care as an option for your parent or loved one. Respite care facilities can take many forms. It is a helpful option for those recovering from surgery or a serious illness. It’s also good for giving caregivers a much-needed break from the demands of caring for someone else.

When researching care options for your parents or a loved one, a clear understanding of the different services available to your family will help you make the right choice. LifeWorx is here to support your decision and your loved one’s lifestyle. Our care team is always available to help answer your questions or provide assistance in navigating the best fit for your parents.