Sometimes, older adults cannot live independently, or they are unwilling. In such cases, residential assisted living can come in handy. However, it is vital to evaluate your options before relocating your elderly loved one. Extensive research and professional assistance will acquaint you with senior living homes, enabling you to make informed decisions. There are several options for senior living communities that can offer the happy, healthy, and fulfilling setting you need.
Independent Living (IL) or Independent Living Facility (ILF)
If your family member is still physically active and does not wish to live alone, you can opt for such a facility. In these communities, residents live active lifestyles in the company of their peers. The facilities provide independent living residences that are relatively maintenance-free. An ILF involves designing a housing style in an apartment restricted for a 55+ active adult community.
IL homes can also have freestanding continuums or houses with optional housekeeping services. For example, the facility may subcontract a private firm to offer needed services to clients. The third-party firm can either rent offices in the same compound or visit the facility regularly.
Assisted Living Facilities (ALF) for Senior Living Communities
When older adults need help with taking their medication, cooking, transportation, bathing, or dressing, an assisted living facility can be an ideal option. It is the best fit for a family member who may be somewhat active but still requires assistance with daily tasks.
Some elderly adults grapple with memory disorders, such as Alzheimer’s, or may not move without help. In such cases, an ALF could be the right choice.
To achieve the overall wellness of their clients, the living facilities offer various essential services, including:
- Fitness centers
- Medical care
- Multiple meal options
- Daily on-site physical activities
- Safety
Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) or Nursing Home
For people who cannot live independently, a skilled nursing facility can offer around-the-clock care. In SNFs, trained medical experts provide specialized and customized care for clients with severe injuries or illnesses. Qualified employees assist residents with daily routines, including eating, housekeeping, bathing, laundry, and dressing.
A nursing home typically provides quality medical care to residents with complex illnesses.
Continuous Care Retirement Community (CCRC) or Life Care Communities
A continuing care retirement community combines all care levels – from independent to assisted living – in one property. A CCRC can help the elderly peacefully age in one place. As their needs change with time, they can move from one level of care to the next in the same vicinity. Such facilities can be convenient for your loved one since they offer a stress-free transition. Your family member remains in familiar settings.
The nurses, doctors, and therapists of the CCRC unit offer care as necessary to the assisted and independent living residents. However, the priority of staff on the property is to care for residents who need nursing services.
Some of the top benefits of CCRC include:
- Your loved one can move to a higher level of care in senior living communities without losing social contacts
- Residents at the independent living stage can know the staff members who will attend to them after transitioning to a nursing home or assisted living facility
- Offers more opportunities for social engagements by providing many social activities than the other living options
- Couples who require similar or different services can live close to one another
- Other than medical care, residents can access spiritual and emotional treatment
Learn More from the Experts
Do not let your elderly loved ones who cannot live on their own continue suffering in silence. Senior living communities have excellent features and trained staff ready to offer elderly adults the care they need. Contact the experts for more details on senior living.