Senior Living Communities: What They Are and How to Choose

If your loved one is among the 62 million seniors in the country, senior living has to be at the back of your mind.

Choosing the right living option for your aging loved one is a big decision. Senior communities offer different levels of care and lifestyle options. If your loved one has particular health issues, they'll need a different type of care than someone who is completely healthy.

The main types of senior community homes are independent senior living communities, assisted living, and memory care. This guide will help you understand the types of senior communities and how to choose the best one.

What Is a Senior Living Community?

A senior living community, also called a retirement home, is where older adults can live independently. These communities offer a low-maintenance lifestyle in a social environment surrounded by peers. It's ideal for seniors who want freedom without the hassle of home upkeep.

Perks of Senior Living Communities

Choosing a senior home gives seniors who are healthy and independent a resort-style atmosphere. They offer amenities and services that make life easier and more enjoyable. Some of the key perks include:

Restaurant-Style Dining

Seniors need to eat a healthy diet to avoid weight gain/loss and other health issues. It can be a nuisance for some seniors to cook for themselves. Their independent living communities will have in-house restaurants to give them a daily selection of nutritious and delicious meals.

Fun Activity Programs

Senior communities keep residents busy and engaged with daily activities. Many of these are geared toward the health and wellness of residents. They may include things like:

• Running/walking clubs
• Games nights
• Gardening
• Music/art classes
• Various events and performances

High-End Amenities

Different elderly housing options have different high-end amenities. Much of the time, the amenities a community offers will be a deciding factor in choosing one community over another. Some have pools or in-house spas, while others feature salons and walking paths.

These communities focus on social connection and convenience. Seniors can enjoy a lifestyle free from chores like cooking and cleaning. It's a great choice for older adults who are active but want more support.

What Is an Assisted Living Community?

An assisted living community provides housing and care for seniors who need daily support. It's a middle ground between independent living and nursing homes. Seniors in assisted living get help with daily tasks while maintaining as much independence as possible.

Who Is Assisted Living For?

Assisted living is designed for older adults who need help with activities of daily living (ADLs). These may include:

• Bathing and dressing

• Medication management

• Mobility assistance

Seniors who face mobility challenges and other mild health problems often benefit from this option. It's best for those who can't live independently at home but don't need full medical care.

Services and Amenities in Assisted Living

Assisted living communities offer many of the same perks as senior living communities - activity programming, dining, etc. - but with more support. Key services include:

Staff Availability

Staff are available 24/7 in assisted living communities. They're there to assist with everything from hygiene and bathing to medication management. If your loved one needs help getting from point A to B, staff are around to help.

Health Monitoring

Many assisted living communities have medical professionals on-site or nearby to monitor resident health. This is especially important if your loved one has a chronic condition. It's important to have healthcare professionals around to respond to various needs and occasional emergencies.

Housekeeping

Housekeeping services are also provided so that residents don't have to worry about things like cleaning or doing laundry. Staff members come by regularly to deal with these things, ensuring your loved one is always in good hands.

What Is a Memory Care Community?

A memory care community is a specialized option for people with Alzheimer's/dementia, or other memory-related conditions. These communities provide a safe, structured environment tailored to cognitive health.

Why Memory Care Is Important

More than 6.7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease. Seniors with dementia have unique needs that traditional senior living or assisted living communities cannot meet. They may face:

• Memory loss and confusion

• Wandering behavior

• Difficulty with communication

Memory care communities have trained staff and secure layouts to address these challenges. This specialized care ensures safety and dignified support for residents with cognitive decline.

Features of Memory Care Communities

Memory care communities offer services and care plans specifically designed for those with dementia. Features include:

Secure Environments

Memory care communities are safe and secure to prevent things like wandering. This is something that over half of all Alzheimer's patients do, and it can result in physical and emotional trauma. A secure environment can prevent it entirely.

Structured Daily Routines

Activities and programming in assisted living is meant to provide structure, which benefits those with cognitive issues. Staff are knowledgable and equipped to help residents make the most of their situation.

Specialized Activities

The activities that residents of memory care enjoy include things like art therapy and group counseling. These things are widely proven to help residents manage their symptoms in a safe and comforting way.

How to Choose Senior Community Homes for Seniors

Choosing the right senior community depends on your loved one's health, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Consider the following steps:

Assess Care Needs

Does your loved one need support with daily tasks or memory care? This will determine the type of community needed.

Tour Communities

Visit potential communities and ask questions about staff training, security, and daily schedules.

Check Amenities and Activities

Look for activities and amenities that match your loved one's interests.

Consult a Doctor

Get a medical professional's opinion on the best level of care for your loved one.

By understanding the different types of senior communities, you can make a confident decision that supports your loved one's well-being and happiness.

Let the Right Senior Living Communities Help Your Loved One

There are many senior communities out there. Now that you know what different senior care housing options bring to the table, you can pick the right one for your loved one's needs.