Assisted Living and Independent Living: A Comparison Guide

Are you trying to decide whether an assisted living or independent living community will be the right choice? It is best to consider the relevant factors and understand the different services and amenities provided. Doing so will ensure you have the care and support you require for a healthy and comfortable life.

The experienced team at our independent living facility in West Hartford, Connecticut, explains the main difference between the two types of retirement homes to help you make the correct decision.

4 Differences Between Independent & Assisted Living

Living Spaces

The independent living homes for seniors include a range of arrangements, such as apartment-style communities, housing co-ops, and more. You can enjoy your independence while having access to common areas where you can meet other residents. These senior retirement communities have top-notch features and amenities.

Assisted living communities have specialized care units for seniors with cognitive impairments and increased security measures such as additional surveillance and locked doors for the safety of the residents. They also offer higher levels of senior care to help you if you need additional professional support for a healthy life in the later years of life.

Amenities, Care, and Services

Independent living communities are designed to make your day-to-day lives easy and problem-free, thus allowing you to enjoy your life after retirement. They offer services to reduce your everyday chores and responsibilities, including laundry and housekeeping, on-site dining facilities, and more.

On the other hand, assisted living facilities are more focused on seniors who need assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, taking medications, and doing laundry. You will have access to qualified staff for medical care. However, these communities do not offer skilled nursing care for seniors with serious ailments.

Assisted living and independent living facilities have schedules unique to each resident and their abilities. They conduct activities, such as exercise classes, holiday celebrations, game nights, and support and discussion groups for the residents.

Difference in Costs

For independent living communities, rent and utilities comprise the principal cost. Depending on what the facility offers, you may have access to other specialized recreational opportunities and add ons for a joining fee. You will also have different meal plans based on specific requirements and health conditions.

The base fare for assisted living facilities often includes rent, utilities, and some basic services, such as housekeeping, meals, and more. If you need specialized care, you may have to pay an additional price.

It helps to know that both senior care facilities have specific entrance fees and monthly charges for maintenance, security, nursing observation, 24/7 staffing, and other services.

Medical Support

Typically, independent living facilities do not provide much medical assistance for seniors. However, they may have access to affiliated health care.

For assisted living, staff members will help you with daily activities and ensure your convenience and safety. You will also have full access to health care services, including primary care practice.

Moving to an Independent Living Community in Senior Years

Independent living communities are suitable for seniors who can manage all their daily needs independently but are ready to move out of their homes. Comfortable living arrangements include services and amenities designed to help you lead an active and fulfilled life. This makes it an ideal place to spend your retirement years. The convenience, daily recreational activities, and camaraderie these communities offer are the main reasons that individuals in the 55+ age range prefer to downsize and live here. Residents maintain their privacy and independence while enjoying caregiver assistance and support if they need it.

Moving to an Assisted Living Facility

If you have special needs and cannot live alone but do not require a high level of care in a nursing home, an assisted living facility is more suitable. You can enjoy the same privacy, recreational activities, and opportunities to socialize as an independent living community while having the personalized professional support you require. The trained staff members will take care of necessary daily needs like housekeeping and meal preparation and assist with bathing, dressing, and medication management. Transportation facilities are also available.

Determining the Best Option for You

The choice between the independent living facility and assisted housing depends on your needs and preferences. It helps to know that many senior living communities offer independent and assisted living. Some facilities also offer more involved care, such as skilled nursing and rehabilitation. It is beneficial to consider your changing needs when making a final decision.

The best way to determine which retirement home is right for you is to list your requirements and match them to the services available at a facility. Once you shortlist two or three options, visit them for a first-hand experience. You can make sure if it is clean, the staff is professional and friendly, and the residents look comfortable and happy.

Best Independent and Assisted Living Facilities for Seniors

Seniors live life to the fullest at The Holiday independent living community in West Hartford, Connecticut. We place the utmost importance on the health, comfort, and security of our residents, which is why we provide a wide range of services to cater to their varied needs. You can retire in style with a full range of services and well-planned daily activities. You can also bring your pet along. Delicious dining, the company of like-minded people, and tender loving care by professional yet friendly staff will make you feel like you are on a permanent holiday. We place the utmost importance on the health, comfort, and security of our residents, which is why we provide a wide range of services to cater to their varied needs.

Give us a call at 1-860-233-8202 to learn more about the services and amenities we provide at our independent living facility. You can also fill out the online contact form to book a tour.