When you think about living arrangements for your senior years, you might think of only one option: independent living. But what’s going to happen when you enter the independent living community? Are you simply giving up on having a life and moving into an apartment with other golden-age adults, or are there other considerations to choosing this lifestyle? Let’s explore more about independent living vs. different types of senior living and how they affect you.
What is Independent Living?
Independent living is perfect for those who can still live independently but would like to have access to assistance when needed. Independent living communities offer their residents access to dining, entertainment, transportation, and more. The lifestyle offers residents the freedom to choose what they want to do, but with minimal assistance. Services, such as meals, housekeeping, and laundry are typically included in the monthly fees. Residents can take advantage of a full calendar of activities, events, day trips, and many opportunities for socialization.
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is for individuals who have issues carrying out daily activities. Residents at assisted living communities receive support for day-to-day activities ranging from bathing, grooming, cleaning, and medication management to meal preparation. Housekeeping and maintenance services are provided, along with meals and transportation. Residents in assisted living can also look forward to recreational activities and social programs.
What is Memory Care?
Memory care is specialized care provided for those who are living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. These communities have safe and secure environments where team members look after the health of the residents. There will also be activities, programs, and events that are specially created to help residents work on their cognitive functions. Team members are qualified to provide the care needed for memory loss.
Perks of Independent Living
Independent living is all about an active lifestyle that is free from the burdens of daily life. You won’t have to worry about taking care of your home anymore. One of the most important differences between independent living and other senior living like assisted living and memory care is that you are able to maintain your independence. While chores such as cleaning, cooking and transportation are being taken care of by the team members, you will have the time and freedom to participate in a wide range of activities, so that you can keep active and healthy.
Another perk of independent living is the availability of dining services. You can choose from a variety of options, including local delights or international cuisines, to indulge your tastebuds. You can usually pick and choose which meals you want to eat at various times throughout the day. Without the need to prepare and cook for yourself, you can free up time for activities and projects that are important to you.
A common perception about independent living is that it is a lonely lifestyle. This is definitely not the case. Because you will be living in a community with other like-minded people, it is likely that you will meet many wonderful people and make many new friends.
There are also many recreational and social activities to take part in.
Activities can include almost anything. You can choose from a variety of activities such as card games, painting and decorating with your favorite art, crafts, and more.
