What is the difference between Independent Living and Assisted Living?

There are multiple options for senior care, and it can be confusing to figure out which one is best for your current phase of life. Here, we will break down the distinct differences between Independent Living and Assisted Living.

Independent Living is a great option for people who want to downsize or no longer wish to perform tasks such as home maintenance, lawn care, or snow removal. Most Independent Living communities offer price packages that also include a meal plan for those who are tired of cooking! Think of it as having a home, without all of the housekeeping responsibilities, that still allows you to maintain your own lifestyle.

Some of the other perks of Independent Living communities include participation in group activities (games, church services, exercise classes, etc.) and use of on-site amenities such as hair salons, meeting rooms, coffee bars and libraries, to name a few. Many Independent Living communities also offer housekeeping and laundry services, depending on your price package.

You’ll be a good candidate for Independent Living if you’d like to have less upkeep, want to move from a rural area to be closer to your doctors or loved ones or desire more social interaction and support as you age.

One of the top benefits Independent Living provides is peace of mind. Typically, the community staff will get to know you and your routine and will check in while still respecting your independence and autonomy. This is a comfort in the event you fall or have a medical event.

Most Independent Living Communities are either a duplex or apartment-style building and offer multiple amenities and plenty of social interaction with others.

Assisted Living is appropriate for those who need assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). These activities include:

• Dressing

• Toileting

• Eating

• Grooming

Assisted Living offers help with the above ADLs and includes extensive amenities, too! Many communities also provide transportation to appointments and excursions in town, as well. Most Assisted Living communities have in-house physical and occupational therapies, as well as doctors who are on site on a weekly basis for medical appointments.

A common misconception about Assisted Living communities is that they are clinical or look and feel like a hospital setting. However, that is simply not the case. The homes we recommend at Senior Living Solutions are required to deliver the best of care and be clean and friendly but also provide a comfortable environment where staff recognizes it is the residents’ home.

Many senior communities have Independent Living and Assisted Living next door to one another so you can easily make the transition from Independent to Assisted if the need arises.

If you have any further questions about Independent and Assisted Living, please reach out to us at 307-763-9692.