Independent vs. Assisted Living: Choosing the Right Lifestyle
According to Choice Mutual, only about 10% of homes are ready to accommodate aging adults. Seniors may need grab bars to lift themselves or wider hallways to accommodate walkers. However, making these accommodations can cost up to $100,000.
Instead, seniors have the option to move into a senior living community. The big decision is whether they can handle independent living or if they need daily assistance.
Here's what you need to know about independent vs assisted living for your aging loved ones.
Understanding Senior Living Options
There is a wide variety of retirement communities with different levels of senior care. Some are made primarily for seniors who can live alone without any problems. Others are designed for residents who will require more help as they age.
Independent Living
Many independent seniors prefer aging in place rather than moving into a new community. It helps to know exactly what you get when you transition into an independent living community.
To begin with, these communities cater to seniors who need little to no daily help. They provide an environment that fosters socialization, convenience, and access to various amenities. Those convenient amenities may include housekeeping and access to a dining hall.
Assisted Living
Not all seniors are capable of living alone without some major compromises. For these individuals, assisted living can ease their stress and make their lives easier. It's especially useful for seniors already living in a rental unit and want to move to a more convenient area.
Assisted living communities provide access to trained caregivers who help as much as a senior needs while promoting independence. Residents can enjoy scheduled programs and social groups at their leisure.
Staff are always available, and there are emergency response systems to keep seniors safe.
Independent vs Assisted Living
The core difference between independent and assisted living is the level of care provided.
A senior who moves into independent living will receive little to no help with tasks like bathing, cooking, and using the restroom. They are expected to be able to do all of these on their own. At the same time, they gain access to amenities that take away the responsibilities of cooking and cleaning.
In contrast, assisted living staff help residents with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). It's not uncommon for these residents with mobility problems to need help getting in and out of bed or dressing.
Independent seniors can live in either apartments, condos, or cottages. Seniors who need assistance usually live in private or semi-private rooms, but it depends on the community.
As far as costs go, expect less from independent living. Seniors have to pay more for access to trained caregivers.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Elder Housing
Seniors should look at the way they currently live to determine what kind of community to move into. They should also consider how their life may change in a few years, especially if they live with a progressive disease or disorder.
Current and Future Needs
Assessing one's current health and anticipating future care requirements is the first step to deciding between independent and assisted living.
A senior who is mostly self-sufficient will find satisfaction in an independent living community. However, the same will not go for someone who may need additional support in the coming years. In that case, they should look for a community that offers both.
Level of Independence
Both independent and assisted living seek to provide a community where seniors can feel like they can live their lives how they want.
Those who value complete autonomy and can handle living alone will enjoy independent care.
Assisted living is better for those who need as much or as little help as they need. They can then dictate how they spend their days outside of those moments, such as going for long walks or meeting with friends elsewhere in the city.
Budget and Affordability
In general, independent living communities are the most affordable options for seniors. Since they do not include personal care services, you don't have to pay for them.
Aside from personal care, both independent and assisted living offers very similar amenities and services. Assisted living costs more because residents gain access to trained caregiving professionals.
If a senior cannot afford assisted living, they have a few options to try.
One of their first options is to try a reverse mortgage. This involves using your home as collateral for regular payments.
Qualified veterans can use financial benefits and get discounts on assisted living. Various government and nonprofit programs also help seniors afford to live in these communities.
Lifestyle Preferences
A senior's desired social engagement, recreational activities, and amenities all dictate which community to move into. Both options offer social interaction, but the activities and amenities depend on the specific community.
By default, do not expect staff to provide transportation. Seniors who live independently will have an easier time to get around town. Those in assisted living may require help arranging a ride.
Location and Proximity to Family
The location has a big effect on the cost of a senior's stay in any community.
Choosing a community close to family members ensures a strong support system. At the same time, it may mean spending more on room and board than if a senior lived further away.
Safety and Security
Both independent and assisted living communities offer security features. However, seniors who need more supervision will find it in assisted living. Staff is available around the clock and are often trained to deal with most daily requirements.
Find Your Senior Community
Knowing whether you need independent vs assisted living comes down to how much daily assistance you need. Aside from that, they both share similar amenities and community features. There are even plenty of communities that offer both for seniors who understand that their needs may change over time.
The Watermark At Westwood Village is a senior living community in Los Angeles, California. Our residents have a wide variety of living choices, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and short-term stays. Contact us with any questions and to set up a tour.