How to Choose the Right Type of Senior Living

Recent research indicates that community life has a very positive impact on seniors’ health, well-being and longevity. The National Opinion Research Center (NORC) at the University of Chicago found that older adults in senior living communities not only experienced lower rates of inpatient hospital admissions than those living independently but also had a longer life expectancy.  Another study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that engaging in enjoyable activities and socializing with friends—opportunities often available in senior living communities—helps protect and maintain cognitive abilities longer.

Another surprising benefit to community life: cost. A report by the American Association of Seniors Housing (ASHA), The Surprising Price of Staying in a House, indicated that aging at home isn’t always the most cost-effective choice, especially for those who may need around-the-clock supportive care services provided by a home care organization.

If you think community life might be for you – or a loved one – but don’t know how to start your search, the first step is to understand the differences between types of communities. From independent living to skilled nursing facilities, each option offers different levels of assistance, including planned social activities, help with daily tasks, medication management and medical care.

So, what’s right for you? Let’s explore:

Independent Living

If you’re looking for an active lifestyle, the convenience of maintenance-free living that gives you more time for social and life enrichment opportunities, and a way of life that focuses on health and wellness, an independent living community offers it all. Whether in an active adult community or one offering healthcare services, independent living is an approach to aging that supports both your independence and overall well-being. But is it right for you? Ask yourself:

• Are you an active, independent senior?
• Can you safely manage your personal care needs?
• Are you able to independently manage your medications?
• Do you intend – and are you able – to maintain your active lifestyle?
• Do you enjoy regular social interactions and group activities?
• Are you looking for a worry-free lifestyle without household maintenance burdens?
• Would you appreciate on-site amenities like housekeeping, dining, or transportation services?
• Do you value a community environment that supports ongoing wellness and personal growth?
• Are you looking for opportunities to pursue hobbies, fitness programs, and travel within a secure setting?

Assisted Living

Assisted living is a great way to maintain independence while getting the extra help you or a loved one may need. In assisted living facilities, residents enjoy the privacy of their own apartment or suite (or a shared suite if preferred) while having access to around-the-clock support to help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, grooming, etc. These communities are designed to provide not only care and support but also opportunities to connect socially, participate in wellness programs, and enjoy a supportive, engaging environment.

Assisted living not only helps seniors feel secure and engaged but also provides peace of mind for family members. Is it right for you or your loved one? Here are a few things to consider:

• Is additional help needed with everyday activities like bathing, dressing, or grooming?
• Are there growing concerns about personal safety or overall care?
• Has there been an increase in falls or a noticeable pattern of mishaps?
• Is cooking becoming more difficult, or are there signs that nutritional needs aren’t being fully met?
• Is a family caregiver feeling overwhelmed or even facing their own health challenges?
• Are home care expenses getting out of hand?
• Are mobility issues making it harder to move around safely?
• Are there increased feelings of isolation and loneliness?

Memory Care

Memory Care communities provide safe, secure housing and 24-hour specialty care for seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Specialized memory care aims to create positive, meaningful experiences within safe, stimulating environments so those living with memory loss can lead engaged, purposeful lives. How to know if it’s time? Common signs include:

• Does your loved one need continuous oversight to stay safe and prevent wandering or accidents?
• Are challenging behaviors, like increased confusion, agitation, aggression, severe anxiety, or sundowning, becoming harder to manage?
• Are hobbies, social interactions, or daily routines becoming less appealing or more challenging for your loved one to follow, making it harder to stay engaged in daily life?
• Is there an increased need for help with personal care tasks like dressing or bathing?
• Is your loved one occasionally unable to recognize family and friends?
• Are they becoming more confused about where they are or what day it is?
• Are they more moody or withdrawn in socially or mentally challenging situations?
• How is caregiving affecting you? Is caring for your loved one taking a toll on your family life, career, or personal health?

Memory care communities are dedicated not only to the specialized support and safety of residents but also to offering families much-needed relief, reassurance and peace of mind. See more on knowing how to decide between memory care and assisted living for your loved one.

Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) or Life Plan Community

These campus-like environments offer a full continuum of senior care from independent living to assisted living and skilled nursing. Many also provide home care, memory care and hospice services. Typically, however, CCRCs or life plan communities are the choice of seniors eager to remain independent and active while lining up a plan for their future, too. Is this right for you?

• Are you looking for a community that meets your current active, independent agenda, but can also accommodate future changes to your health … a single community where you won’t have to worry about moving multiple times as your needs evolve?
• Would you prefer not to ask your adult children for help someday with caregiving for yourself or your spouse?
• Do you need one type of senior living, but your spouse requires another?

A CCRC or life plan community can be a good long-term solution for those who want a comprehensive senior care community with a variety of options for both now and in the future.

Nursing Home

A common misperception is that assisted living facilities and nursing homes are the same. However, there are very distinct differences. A simple way to remember the key difference is that nursing homes (or skilled nursing facilities) primarily focus on medical care, while assisted living communities emphasize lifestyle and daily support. Assisted living communities are an excellent choice for those in fairly good health who only need a little help with daily activities. Nursing homes are better when 24-hour medical care and supervision are required.

Nursing homes can be stand-alone facilities or part of a continuum of care at a senior living community. They have come a long way in recent decades. Now, a more significant focus is placed on enhancing quality of life through programs, activities, and social opportunities. In most cases, nursing homes are licensed for Medicare/Medicaid reimbursement.

Which is better for your loved one? Take a look at our in-depth comparison.

Where You Live Matters

Once you understand your senior living options, discuss your preferences and needs with family, friends, and medical professionals early to make an informed decision, because where you live matters. Use our convenient community locator tool to find the best options in your local community. Find your community.

By the American Seniors Housing Association

Where You Live Matters is powered by the American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA), a respected voice in the senior housing industry. ASHA primarily focuses on legislative and regulatory advocacy, research and educational opportunities and networking for senior living executives, so they can better understand the needs of older adults across the country.