What is the difference?
Independent living and assisted living are two senior living options that often get categorized together or offered at the same facility, like at Saint Ann Retirement Center. While both options can exist in the same facility or building, there are some key differences between assisted living vs. independent living that can help you decide which option is right for you!
What is assisted living?
What is independent living?
Assisted living is an excellent choice for seniors. It provides a heightened level of care while supporting independence.
Assisted living includes:
- Medication administration
- Delicious meals
- Personal care, including dressing and bathing
- Laundry services
- Housekeeping
- 24/7 staffing
- Planned social activities, such as:
- Entertainers
- Sports
- Games
- Outings
- Exercise classes
- Daily news
- Religious services
Assisted living is not to be confused with a nursing home. Nursing homes are more closely related to a hospital where residents need regular medical care in a clinical setting.
Independent living is another great choice for seniors. Residents live like they would as if they were in their own homes.
The difference is support, amenities, and services are available. Independent living also provides residents with a community of similar people who can socialize together.
Independent living includes:
- Delicious meals
- 24 Hours Concierge
- Housekeeping
- Activity schedule, such as:
- Bingo and games
- Arts and crafts
- Strength training sessions
- Entertainers
- Musical performances in the Grand Theater
- Sports
- Religious services
You have access to our staff of nurses and certified aides. But you’ll only interact with them when you need them.
Who is assisted living for?
Who is independent living for?
Assisted living is for those who want personal care and other support in a home-like setting. Those in assisted living get help from staff when they need it and get services at their request.
Assisted living also gives residents an environment where they can be social at their own pace. Someone who wants to be around people their age would greatly benefit from assisted living.
You may choose assisted living because:
- It provides a safe environment for seniors with limited mobility or medical conditions that require assistance.
- It fosters socialization opportunities for seniors to thrive.
- Help and medical personnel are available.
- Delicious, healthy meals are prepared to support the immune system and maintain overall wellness.
- Transportation is provided to help seniors maintain their independence.
Independent living is for healthy seniors who still live on their own but want the safety of being in an environment with peers and staff. Seniors find it reinvigorating to live in a place where they interact with other similar aged people.
At an independent living facility, you get to make your daily decisions without the hassle of chores like housekeeping, grocery shopping, lawn care, and home maintenance.
Delicious meals are prepared daily for your convenience. However, apartments come with kitchenettes, making it possible to cook meals at your leisure!
Daily medical and personal care is different for assisted living vs. independent living residents. For independent living, medical and personal care is provided by your choice of home health companies whenever needed or requested. Independence is the top priority for our independent living residents.
When to transition from Independent living to assisted living
Transitioning from independent living to assisted living can be difficult for some. It can also be difficult for family members looking to help their elder relatives. You should consider moving from independent living to assisted living if:
- Health conditions decline
- Accidents, like falls, occur more often
- Hospital visits increase
- Day to day tasks become difficult
- Assistance with medication, bathing, or dressing is needed
You’ll still be under the same roof and around familiar people. If you or a relative needs a transition to assisted living, call us today or visit our facility. We’re happy to give your relative the best care possible. The main difference between assisted living vs. independent living is the level of personal care aid and nursing oversight available. It is important to understand the key differences. Contact us to speak with a senior care professional about your options.
When to transition from home to assisted or independent living
Residents agree that the best time to move from living in your own home to a senior living community is when you can still decide for yourself. That way, you choose which place best suits your needs and gives you the best quality of life. Learn about the key differences between assisted living vs. independent living.
For instance, independent living gives you the same independence you’d feel in your own home while giving you a community of people you didn’t have. On the other hand, assisted living will grant you access to personal assistance, allowing you to focus on enjoying life. Moving into a senior living residence is a big decision. And it’s one you should be a part of.
If you still have any questions about the differences between assisted living vs. independent living, contact us and schedule a tour.