Here’s Senior Care 101. Learn more about the different types of senior living, independent living, assisted living, and memory care.
If you are considering a move to a senior living community or helping an older family member explore their options, understanding the difference between each type of senior care isn’t always easy. But the distinctions are important. Making the best decision requires learning more about each type of care, as well as the services and amenities offered.
3 Distinct Levels of Senior Living
At Legacy Senior Living communities, there are three distinct levels of care:
- Independent living for the more active senior
- Assisted living for an older adult who needs a little support
- Memory care for adults with dementia
In many instances, an older adult chooses to move to a senior living community when they are active and independent. This allows them to take advantage of the community’s life enrichment and wellness programs.
As the resident’s needs for care change, they are able to move through the care continuum to receive assisted living or memory care support.
What is Independent Living?
Independent living communities are designed to provide active older adults with an option for a lifestyle that is free from the burdens of home ownership. This gives them time to travel, take continuing education classes, volunteer, pursue new hobbies, and reconnect with old friends.
Independent living community residents enjoy and benefit from the following services and amenities:
- Choice of apartments and floor plans
- From repairing the oven to mowing the lawn, all home maintenance and repairs are handled for residents
- Social, recreational, and educational activities to participate in every day
- Peace of mind that comes from knowing security is onsite 24/7
- Delicious, well-balanced meals served restaurant style in the dining room
- Wellness programs designed to help residents live longer, healthier lives
- Access to assisted living and dementia care if the need arises
The Support of an Assisted Living Community
Assisted living residents benefit from the privacy of their own apartment combined with the care and support they need always close by.
In addition to a comfortable apartment, assisted living residents benefit from the following:
- An individual plan of care created for each resident based on their unique needs and struggles
- Around-the-clock caregivers to provide assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting
- Robust calendar of life enrichment activities, wellness programs, and community outings
- All housekeeping, maintenance, and daily linens provided
- Utilities, basic cable television, and local phone service included
- Transportation for community outings, errands, and appointments
Memory Care for Adults With Dementia
Memory care communities are designed to help adults with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia live their best quality of life despite their disease. Caregivers are trained to support a resident’s remaining abilities, helping them feel more independent and empowered.
Here are a few of the services and amenities found in Legacy’s memory care communities, known as The Harbor:
- A safe and secure environment designed to prevent resident wandering
- Specialized caregivers who understand the unique needs of adults with dementia
- Nutritious meals served in an environment that minimizes distractions
- Life enrichment activities and wellness programs that help people with dementia feel successful
- Laundry and housekeeping services
- Unique therapy programs, such as The Purposeful Day and Simple C, that help residents live their best life every day
Schedule a Private Visit Today
If you have questions about what type of care is best for you or an older adult in your family, or if you would like to schedule a private tour, please call the Legacy Senior Living community nearest you today!