Independent Living vs. Assisted Living: Understanding the Differences to Determine What’s Right For You

Whether you’re considering independent living or assisted living for yourself or a loved one, there is much to learn and even more to evaluate before you start your search. While the terminology (independent and assisted) may seem self-explanatory, there are key distinctions between these two senior living options. The differences in levels of care, available services, housing options and social programming all play an important role in helping you gain a clear understanding of what each lifestyle entails—and what it does not.  It’s an important first step in helping you decide which lifestyle best meets your needs.

What’s the Difference?

Independent living communities support the social and lifestyle needs of residents who can live independently with little to no assistance. Independent living includes a range of options—from active adult communities that offer housing and select amenities to continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), which provide access to on-site healthcare services if they’re needed.  Assisted living communities support those who need some level of assistance with the activities of daily living while allowing residents to live as independently as possible for as long as possible.

How else do independent and assisted living differ? Let’s take a look:

Type of Residences

Independent senior living can be likened to living in an active adult or 55+ community. It covers a range of housing styles, from apartment buildings to free-standing homes. Seniors enjoy a private residence and the community’s services, amenities, activities, and common areas.

Assisted living residences are often apartment-style homes. They’re smaller and simpler to navigate and don’t have stairs. Because this option is designed for seniors who need support with activities of daily living, the floor plan may include a kitchenette rather than a full-size kitchen, along with other modifications to promote safety and convenience.

Support and Medical Care

Independent living requires the least amount of caregiving – or none at all. While on-site services and activities may be offered, independent living communities are geared toward those who have no trouble driving, taking medication, preparing meals, managing finances and a host of other activities. Some independent living communities, however, are part of continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) that offer a continuum of care, including assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing.

Sometimes referred to as personal care communities, assisted living facilities are for those who could benefit from some level of assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) like dressing, bathing, grooming and medication management. A care team, including professional nurses, is available around the clock to provide support and ensure safety.

Cost Comparison

Assisted Living communities are generally rental-based and often require a one-time community entrance fee. In addition, residents pay a monthly fee that typically includes maintenance, housekeeping, security, three daily meals, access to a range of activities and programs, and personalized care and support. Some communities may charge more for residents needing more than a few hours of assistance each day.

Independent Living communities (excluding 55+ communities) charge a monthly fee that typically covers rent, utilities, maintenance, some meals, and access to amenities. Some also require a one-time community fee.

In a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), residents usually pay a larger one-time entrance fee along with a set monthly fee. If they later need assisted living, they generally won’t have to pay a second entrance fee. Some communities offer light assisted living services within independent living residences. In others, depending on the original contract, if a resident needs to move to assisted living, the monthly fee may stay the same—or increase only slightly, often just enough to cover extra meals.

Both independent and assisted living are paid for privately, so Medicare and Medicaid are not typically accepted. Learn how families pay for care and find ways to help offset costs.

Amenities and Programming
Both independent and assisted living communities offer a wide range of amenities and programming, regardless of the level of care. Residents typically enjoy private apartments, housekeeping services, 24-hour staff availability, transportation, diverse dining options and access to social events and activities. Common areas such as fitness centers, libraries, cafés and game rooms are also available to encourage casual social engagement.

With the exception of active adult communities, dinner is often included in the monthly fees of independent living communities. Many offer a variety of dining experiences, from elegant sit-down meals to more casual or takeout-style options. Residents also have the flexibility to prepare their own meals at home. Three daily meals (and unlimited snacks) are generally included in assisted living. Residents are encouraged to dine with others, as mealtimes are valuable opportunities for social connection.

Both types of communities typically feature a full calendar of educational, cultural, and recreational events. Assisted living facilities may provide more hours of daily programming, especially in memory care settings. Activities are often tailored to meet the physical and cognitive needs of individual residents and offered in smaller, more supportive group settings.

Who Benefits from Independent Living vs. Assisted Living? Let’s Compare

Independent living is ideal for older adults who:

• Does not require assistance or care
• Interested in  downsizing to a senior-friendly home or apartment
• Wants a maintenance-free lifestyle
• Prefers not to live alone
• Enjoys being active and social
• Desires services and amenities without sacrificing independence

Assisted living is best for seniors who:

• Need help with everyday tasks (e.g. bathing, dressing, grooming)
• Struggle with household chores or management responsibilities
• Have difficulty preparing meals or maintaining good nutrition
• Misses doses or takes medications incorrectly
• Feels isolated, lonely or depressed living alone
• Has a chronic health condition that needs monitoring (e.g., diabetes, Parkinson’s)
• Has mobility issues or is prone to falls
• Wants to reduce reliance on family for ongoing support

What’s the right fit for you?

Put simply, Independent Living is for active older adults who are ready for a worry-free lifestyle. They can enjoy the comforts and conveniences of a senior living community, focus on maintaining their health, and spend more time with friends and family. Assisted living is for seniors who live independently but need some form of assistance with activities of daily living. With the right help at the right time in a supportive and understanding community, they’re able to stay independent longer.

As you investigate senior living options for yourself or a loved one, it helps to visit a number of communities in person to see the differences for yourself.

Find Community

If you’re ready to explore more independent or assisted living options, we can help you assess which is best for you. Find your community.

Where You Live Matters

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.