There are now nearly 50 million people in the U.S. aged 65 or older.
As the older population grows, so too does the need for living options that can accommodate the wants and needs of senior citizens.
One big decision that seniors and their families need to make is assisted living or independent living environment. Either option offers its own distinct benefits. But each also has drawbacks you need to know before you make your decision
Keep reading to learn what you need to know about independent living versus assisted living.
Independent Living
Independent living is an option for seniors who need some care or even around-the-clock attention but want to remain in the comfort of their homes.
This care can come in several forms. Some individuals choose to live in independent living communities.
These give each person their own home, apartment, or other living space. But it also means that these individuals get a variety of assistance with everyday tasks.
Someone mows their grass and cares for their lawn. They perform home repairs and clean their home. They often even do their laundry or prepare their meals
Another option for independent living is to have an in-home nurse or caregiver. This caregiver or nurse may live with the senior full-time, or simply be in the home for a set number of hours each week.
The caregiver may administer medications, perform housekeeping, and more.
Benefits of Independent Living
Independent living has a number of clear benefits.
If a nurse or caregiver is used, the senior may remain in the comfort of their own home. This can be very comforting for individuals of any age.
They can still have family come to visit, keep their pets, and otherwise continue their lives as they always have. Only they do so with the help and a watchful eye there to care for them.
Independent living communities offer similar benefits. Seniors still have their own private space and the independence that can sometimes get lost when a person moves into a nursing home.
Depending on the facility, the individual may still be able to have their family visit for overnights.
They may be able to decorate their home as they please and practice hobbies like gardening. Many independent living communities even allow pets!
Drawbacks of Independent Living
While there are plenty of benefits, both forms of independent living have drawbacks as well.
Even with a caregiver there, seniors living in their own home may experience boredom. A sedentary lifestyle can hurt their health.
Independent living facilities offer activities and promote a healthier lifestyle. But they may not offer the level of care or round-the-clock oversight that a nursing home can provide.
These facilities give seniors a high level of independence. They only offering help with tasks that call for heavy physical labor. Seniors still get around on their own, bathe on their own, and perform other everyday tasks.
If an individual suffers from a condition like Alzheimer’s or if they struggle to get around on their own or perform even very simple tasks, an independent living facility may not be an option.
Assisted Living
An alternative to independent living is assisted living. This usually occurs in an assisted living community or nursing home, depending on the individual’s needs and abilities.
Assisted living is often chosen because a senior needs advanced care that they can’t get from an independent living facility or even an in-home nurse. This could mean advanced medical help for conditions like Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.
An assisted living facility will offer around-the-clock care from medical professionals, as well as advanced help with many regular daily tasks.
In an assisted living community, individuals may still be able to live in a separate home or apartment, while still receiving that advanced care.
Benefits of Assisted Living
Assisted living in a community or nursing home offers a number of benefits.
In an assisted living facility, seniors can still maintain their independence with their own space and all of their personal belongings. But they won’t have to sacrifice the medical care and help with daily tasks that they wouldn’t get in an independent living facility.
These facilities often lack kitchens, to keep individuals suffering from dementia from causing a dangerous accident. The units are also equipped with handrails in bathtubs, non-slip floors, and other amenities to keep aging seniors safe in their new homes.
For patients with advanced medical needs, a nursing home provides all of the care and attention that they need in a comfortable environment.
Both assisted living communities and nursing homes provide a schedule of structured activities, from outings to physical activities like water aerobics or yoga. These help to keep individuals active and healthy, and they provide an excellent boost to their .
Drawbacks of Assisted Living
For individuals who still enjoy their independence and a level of privacy, an assisted living community or nursing home can be stifling. Even in their own separate home or apartment, they’ll likely get regular visits from nurses and caregivers.
They’ll also be forced to leave or even give up their home, and likely a number of their belongings as well. These things can be extremely comforting in times of illness or as a person gets older.
While an assisted living community does offer more independence, these units may still not be fully private. Meals are often served in a communal space, and the individual units may lack the facilities for seniors to prepare their own meals or snacks if they did want to.
Choosing Between Assisted Living and Independent Living
Now that you know the benefits and drawbacks of assisted living and independent living, its time to weigh your options.
Unfortunately, simply choosing the right option isn’t enough. You’ll also have to find the right facility. And with the aging care industry suffering its share of bad press, it’s more important than ever to carefully vet your options. more.
