Thanks to advances in medical science, more information about healthy living and smarter lifestyle choices, Americans are living longer than ever. The U.S. Census Bureau predicts that Americans over the age of 65 will be more than 20 percent of the U.S. population by the year 2029. This large population has created a great need for senior living options. Today, there are a variety of senior living communities that meet different needs and focus on providing different services.
Making the decision to move a loved one to senior living can be difficult. It can be helpful for the entire family to have their questions answered. For instance, what do senior living communities cost? How do you choose a senior living community? What types of senior living communities are available?
What are Three Main Types of Living Communities Available for Older Adults?
When the time comes to make a change in living arrangements for a senior loved one, the options might seem endless. Choices range from aging in place with support at home to full-time care in a nursing facility. Looking at the basic types of communities can help you narrow your choices and begin to explore the options that might work for your family. So, what are the three main types of living communities available for older adults?
Independent Living
These communities are designed for seniors who can safely care for themselves. They provide services like transportation and on-site dining options, as well as health and wellness programs and socialization opportunities. The Atriums Senior Living is an independent living community in Kansas City, Mo. Victory Hills residents enjoy lots of common space for gathering and socializing, an on-site beauty parlor and barber shop and games and activities, while the housekeeping is taken care of!
Assisted Living
Assisted living communities, such as Rose Estates Assisted Living, are customized to support residents in their activities of daily living, which include things like dressing, eating and addressing personal hygiene. There is a strong focus on quality of life and allowing residents to maintain independence and dignity.
Continuing Care Retirement Community
Also known as Life Plan Communities, these communities offer several levels of care and living options. They can provide options for independent living, assisted living and nursing care, all within one community.
Some senior living communities offer multiple levels of care. Tiffany Springs Senior Living Community offers both assisted living and independent living services. The community keeps residents as busy and as active as they choose. Residents have access to fitness programs, hobbies and entertainment and community outings to keep them involved and engaged in a way that fits with their interests and activity levels.
How do You Choose a Senior Living Community?
Once you have identified the type of senior living community that would be the best fit for your family, it is time to select a specific community. To help make that process a bit simpler, here are some tips to help you in your search:
- Understand the options for care and support at any community you are considering; make sure that your loved one’s needs will be met.
- Research questions to ask in order to get information about quality standards and tracking.
- Be clear on what amenities and services are offered at the community and what costs are associated with such services.
- Learn what the overall cost is and what payment options are accepted.
- Decide if the resident activities and the overall culture of the community align with your loved one’s hobbies and lifestyle.
- Explore the community and look for measures of cleanliness and upkeep; ask about housekeeping and what responsibilities your loved one would have.
- Understand what is available for a transition should your loved one begin to require more care or develop a chronic health condition.
Expertise and Experience
Tutera Senior Living and Health Care serves seniors across several states with a philosophy of creating uniquely relevant experiences for each resident. Every single Tutera community provides services and amenities that work together with our collaborative culture to support our residents’ individuality and independence. With facilities throughout the Midwest and the South, Tutera Senior Living & Health Care has options to meet a wide variety of health and lifestyle needs. We offer:
- Independent Living
- Assisted Living
- Thrive Memory Care
- Memory Care
- Respite Programs
- Home Health
- Rehabilitation and Extended Stay
“All of our communities are designed with the residents in mind,” says Randy Bloom, PhD, President and COO of Tutera Senior Living & Health Care. “We understand how important home is. And building a community where you feel at home is the best thing for your health and your happiness.”
Contact Tutera Senior Living & Health Care today to find a location near you and to learn more about our options and services.
