Choosing The Right Senior Living Option

Senior Living choices are divided into various options based on the needs of the older adult. The options range from the independent senior to one who needs a high level of care, as well as whether the senior can still live at home or benefit from living in a community with others.

Independent Living

An independent living community is a 55+ senior retirement community that is centered around the senior that is still able to live without daily assistance. Meals, socialization, and activities are generally available within the community. Sometimes this can be the lowest priced option since paying for care is not necessary, although this really depends on the particular community and the area.

Assisted Living

An assisted living community is focused on the senior needing help with activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, walking, eating, managing their medications, and more. Meals, socialization, and activities are also usually available in an assisted living environment. Many of these communities offer transportation to doctor's appointments and offsite activities. Prices can vary for assisted living depending on the community, room type, and care level.

Memory Care

Memory care is focused on the resident who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's or Dementia. Memory care includes everything assisted living offers but is tailored for those who have Dementia or Alzheimer's. Staff may have specialized training to care for memory care residents. Pricing is often higher than regular assisted living due to the extra care and supervision that older adults with dementia require.

Board & Care (Residential Care Home)

A Board & Care, also known as a Residential Care Home is typically a four to six bed home licensed as a care facility. This setting is usually best for residents that need a higher level of care than an assisted living community can provide. They also offer a smaller home-like setting for hospice patients. Picture a home like you or I would live in, with live-in caregivers who manage the care and serving of meals. Pricing often varies based on the area, whether it is a private or shared room, and the care level required.

Home Care

Home care provides non-medical services to seniors that need assistance with activities of daily living within their own home. A caregiver visits the home to assist with things like bathing, dressing, eating, light household chores, meal preparation, and transportation to appointments. This is typically based on an hourly rate and is private pay.

Home Health

Home Health provides Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy to recipients while living at home. Home health aides do not handle any of the services that Home Care provides. Home Care and Home Health are often confused and the terms used interchangeably, but they are quite different. Home Health is generally covered by medical insurance (including Medicare) usually referred by a doctor, hospital, or skilled nursing facility.

Deciding on the best option for your loved one really depends on their independence or need for care. Pricing can also be a factor. Sometimes assisted living or board and care can be more cost effective than paying for home care, especially if a lot of care is needed.