Do The Different Types Of Retirement Living Communities Really Make A Difference?
There are quite a few retirement options out there for seniors. One thing that can confuse many about those options is the different types of retirement living choices available. Here's a look at some of the different options.
Assisted Living and Independent Living Communities
Assisted living means that the facility offers help in any number of ways. Assisted living is for those that want independence but still need help to carry out certain tasks. These can include things like meal preparation, cleaning, and daily transportation. There's not really much more to the distinction between this and independent living communities.
Independent living implies that you need little to no help in your day-to-day activities. Both of these retirement lifestyle choices usually come along with social activities and things to do at the facility itself. Some independent living services also allow you to keep the assisted services in reserve should you need them.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities
You may also come across continuing care retirement communities (CCRC). These are similar to either independent or assisted living, except they provide skilled nursing. These facilities often try to offer the best of both worlds. They can contain areas for independent living along with areas for those that need assisted care. However, the residents share skilled nursing services.
These services are for those that need professional medical care beyond simple assistance. You may come across some CCRCs advertised as skilled nursing facilities because of that feature.
Understanding the Overlap
One of the causes for confusion is that many facilities offer multiple services. In addition, the level of service offered can also blur the line between one type retirement living choice and another. For instance, some independent living facilities also offer aides that can assist with day-to-day activities. That provided aid can technically mean that the place offers more of an assisted living service than an independent one.
What this means for you is that you probably shouldn't hunt for a specific type of facility. Instead, you should outline a few things and search for a facility that offers them despite its title. For example, your needs may look like this:
- Independence
- Prepared meals
- Nurse on site
- Daily activities
- Laundry and housekeeping
As you can see, this example contains elements of all three types of facilities listed here. As long as a facility can provide these, and stay within your planned budget and coverage, then the "type" of facility doesn't really matter.
You will find many facilities that can handle all of your requests. That means you need to make sure that you choose a reputable place for your long-term care. Don't let your list of needs represent the only requirements. You still need to search with diligence and ask questions at any facility that looks appealing.
For more information, contact Alpine Manor Home For Adults or a similar location.
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