Types of senior living communities
The world of senior living can be confusing. There’s a lot of jargon, and a lot to figure out when you are assessing options for yourself or someone you love who may no longer be safe or comfortable living in their home.
This is a simplified list, but hopefully it will help clarify the basic options for senior housing:
Independent Living (IL): These are designed for active seniors who want to maintain their independence while having access to amenities and social activities. IL communities typically offer apartments or townhomes, and usually have dining options available, and services such as laundry and cleaning. Here you can choose to socialize or maintain your independence.
Assisted Living (AL): AL communities are for seniors who need help with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, getting in or out of bed, using the toilet, eating, or medication management. These communities typically offer private apartments with different levels of care depending on the needs of each resident. Meals are typically included, as is housekeeping and laundry service.
Memory Care: Memory care communities are designed for seniors with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia. These communities offer specialized care and support for seniors with memory loss, including secure environments and specialized programming to promote memory function. Memory care communities typically offer private or semi-private rooms with 24-hour care and supervision.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs): CCRCs are generally large campuses that offer a range of care options, from independent living to skilled nursing care. Once someone moves in, they can transition seamlessly into different levels of care as their needs change. CCRCs typically require an upfront entrance fee and a monthly fee for ongoing care and services.
55+ Communities: These are age-restricted communities that cater to active adults aged 55 and older. These communities offer a variety of amenities and activities, such as golf courses, swimming pools, and fitness centers. 55+ communities can be either rental or owned, and may or may not have health care services available.
Skilled Nursing Facilities: Skilled nursing facilities provide 24-hour medical care and supervision for seniors with complex medical needs. These facilities typically offer both short-term and long-term care options, and may offer rehabilitation services, such as physical therapy.
When considering a senior living community, it's important to consider your current and future needs, your budget, and your lifestyle preferences. There are resources available to help you make the right choice. A good geriatric care manager (GCM), also called an Aging Life Care Professional (ALCA) will assess your needs and help you start to understand which type of senior living is right for you, and what your local options are. Many GCMs can be found on a directory on the Aging Life Care Association website, www.aginglifecare.org.
