As a large generation of people begin entering their senior years, the demand and need for all types of senior living facilities is on the rise. This increase can limit space in some communities, making it important to find one that is the right fit for you or your loved one. In addition to the potential difficulty of finding a space, different types of communities have widely different medical care and support, amenities, staffing levels and living spaces, making finding the right fit even more important.
To help make sure you and your loved one make the best decision when choosing a senior living facility, VOANS has created this guide.
Independent Living Communities
Live life to the fullest with maintenance free living and surrounded by an active, caring community. Independent living communities are for active seniors who are capable of living independently, but want the convenience of community living and never having to worry about home or yard maintenance.
There are many amenities included at independent living communities, including:
- Community activities and gathering spaces
- Fitness centers
- Garden areas
- Outdoor courtyards
- Prepared meals and restaurant-style dining
- Private Apartment Living
- Transportation services
- Wellness programs
Residents can choose how frequently they participate in the wide range of community social activities and programs, giving them the freedom to pursue personal hobbies and interests.
Assisted Living Communities
Assisted living is ideal for seniors with the desire and capacity to live in private, individual apartments, while still receiving hands-on care that follows their individualized personal care plan. These communities put together events, celebrations and activities to give seniors the opportunity to lead a rich, social life within a caring and vibrant atmosphere. Assisted living communities should also provide plenty of amenities for comfort, health and personal fulfillment, such as:
- 24/7 available assistance
- Educational, social and spiritual life enrichment programs
- Individualized plans of care
- Meal plans and social dining spaces
- Personal care services like bathing, grooming and dressing
- Private apartment living
- Transportation services
- Wellness programs
Nursing Homes (Skilled Nursing Communities)
For seniors requiring more consistent medical care and attention, skilled nursing communities with long-term care offer a comfortable, convenient and enriching option. These types of senior living facilities provide 24-hour medical care and attention, with individualized health plans for each resident, making them ideal for those facing significant health challenges or requiring more consistent personal care.
Skilled nursing facilities have licensed nurses, nursing assistants, rehabilitation therapists and various other medical professionals that are available to ensure every resident gets the exact care they need. Additionally, these facilities offer a number of other convenient and enriching amenities. Some of those include:
- 24/7 on-site licensed nursing staff and care attendants
- Daily meal services
- Housekeeping services
- Individualized plans of care
- Life enrichment activities and programs
- Thoughtfully designed living layouts and appliances
Memory Care Communities
By incorporating structure and care into the right environment, seniors with all types of memory loss, including those with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, can enjoy living social and free daily lives at a memory care facility.
Highly trained and caring staff members are able to help individuals meet their long-term health, happiness and overall wellness needs, while also serving as a resource for family members and friends. Amenities in these memory care communities provide structure and comfort while also giving residents the social and mental stimulation they need to lead full and fulfilling lives. Some of these include:
- Individualized plans of care
- Licensed nurse on-site 24/7
- Life enrichment activities
- Physician-led care teams
- Secure environments
- Structured activities
- Three daily meal services
Life Plan Communities
For those looking for a place to call home for many years, even as their needs change, life plan communities are an excellent option. From independent living to nursing care, these communities (also known as Continuing Care Retirement Communities) allow senior residents to age in place and transition between levels of care as needed. Long-term security and consistent community are the main additional benefits of life plan communities, as they also offer the amenities of the various other community types they encompass.
Respite Care and Short-Term Stay Options
Respite care provides support for caregivers who may need a break or have other obligations during a short period of time. It is also used for seniors recovering from major illness or surgery, providing an extra layer of care during these times. By providing high-quality care in a comfortable and caring environment at an assisted living or skilled nursing community, respite care provides a trusted solution for caregivers and seniors alike.
When space allows, respite care arrangements can also be an option for those who are interested in an assisted care community, but would like to experience the community and lifestyle before committing to the move.
Other short-term stay options include rehab, which is generally ordered by a doctor after an injury, surgery or illness.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Senior Living Facility
Once you’ve decided on the type of community that best fits your loved one’s needs, there are more factors to consider before making a choice. The location and proximity to family and friends is hugely important, especially during the move and acclimation period — the support structure and familiarity of loved ones can make the transition much smoother.
One of the most important considerations should be the social and lifestyle preferences of your loved one. By finding a solution that feels comfortable and matches their desires, the move can be an exciting and enjoyable one, rather than something that causes stress.
While health needs and the level of care required should be considerations when deciding on a community, keeping in mind potential future care needs can help you and your loved one make the decision between a single type of living or a life plan community.
Budget and insurance should also be taken into account to ensure that residents can live comfortably, without worrying about needing to move for monetary reasons. The right fit should also be one where you, your loved one and other friends and family members feel comfortable interacting with and asking questions of the staff and management.
The Right Senior Living Community For Your Loved One
When the time comes to choose a senior living facility for a loved one, finding the right fit is essential for their continued happiness and wellbeing. VOANS has all types of senior living facilities spread across many regions of the United States, so you can be sure your loved one gets the care they need and finds a community they enjoy.
If you have any questions about assessing the needs of your loved one or about our facilities in general, check out VOANS’ resources or reach out to our experts — we’re more than happy to help or answer any questions that you have.
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