If you or a senior loved one are getting to the age where the burdens of home ownership have become too much to handle (or you simply want to stop having to do chores to maintain your household!) then a senior living community may be the perfect option for you. Senior living communities allow seniors to move into communities that cater to their every need and want while also making sure that they never have to do any tiresome housework again. Senior living communities provide a range of services and amenities that cater to the needs of seniors, from housekeeping and transportation to medical care and social activities. While there are many different types of senior living communities, the two main types of senior living communities that people often think of are independent living and assisted living. 

Check out our blog below to learn the differences between these two major types of senior living communities and to make an informed decision about whether moving to a senior living community is appropriate for yourself or your senior loved one. If you or a senior loved one want to learn more about how to find or pay for senior living, make sure to reach out to the Sunbound team or request a demo here.

Independent Living Communities

Independent living communities are designed for seniors who are still able to live independently but want the convenience and social benefits of community living. These communities offer a range of services and amenities, including housekeeping, maintenance, transportation, and access to recreational activities and social events. Independent living communities can take many forms, from apartments and condos to villas and townhomes.

Residents of independent living communities typically have access to on-site, resort-style amenities, such as fitness centers, pools, and community rooms. Independent living communities may also have access to on-site medical care, such as a nurse or doctor, but these services are typically not provided on a regular basis. Residents are free to come and go as they please and maintain their independence while enjoying the benefits of community living.

In many ways, independent living communities can be thought of as similar to another type of community designed exclusively for older adults: the active adult community. Like active adult communities, independent living communities are generally focused more on providing their residents a maintenance-free and amenity-rich place to live, with much less focus on providing care than in assisted living communities. For individuals that enjoy living in an active adult community, but think that they are ready to fully leave the burdens of home ownership behind, an independent living community may be a great fit.   

Assisted Living Communities

Assisted living communities, on the other hand, are designed for seniors who require assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). ADLs include tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating. Assisted living communities provide residents with personalized care and support to help them maintain their independence and quality of life. 

Residents of assisted living communities typically have access to 24-hour support from trained caregivers. Caregivers provide assistance with ADLs as well as medication management, transportation, and other services. Residents also have access to on-site medical care, such as nurses or doctors, and may receive regular wellness checks to monitor their health.

Assisted living communities may also offer on-site amenities and activities, such as dining rooms, recreational activities, and transportation to local events and appointments. However, the focus is on providing personalized care and support to meet the individual needs of each resident. But while the focus for many assisted living communities is providing the best possible care, assisted living communities still offer their residents fun and amazing amenities, from movie theaters, to hair salons, to game rooms and libraries. 

Choosing the Right Senior Living Community

When choosing between independent living and assisted living communities, it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Independent living communities are ideal for seniors who are still able to live independently but want the convenience and social benefits of community living. They provide a range of services and amenities that cater to the needs of seniors, without requiring regular assistance with ADLs.

Assisted living communities, on the other hand, are designed for seniors who require assistance with ADLs. They provide personalized care and support to help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life. Assisted living communities are ideal for seniors who require regular support and medical care to manage their health and well-being.

It’s important to tour multiple senior living communities and ask questions about the services and amenities offered. Consider the location, cost, and staff qualifications, as well as the atmosphere and social opportunities. It’s also a good idea to speak with current residents and their families to get an idea of what life is really like in the community.

The Benefits of Senior Living Communities

Regardless of which type of community you choose, there are many benefits to living in a senior living community. These communities provide a safe and secure environment for seniors, with staff on hand to provide assistance and support as needed. They also offer a range of services and amenities that make life easier and more enjoyable for seniors. If you think your senior loved one might benefit from living in a senior living community, you can never start the conversation too early.

Senior living communities also provide opportunities for socialization and engagement, which can improve mental and physical health. Residents can participate in a range of activities and events, from exercise classes and game nights to outings and day trips. They can also connect with other seniors who share their interests and experiences, creating a sense of community that can have powerful effects on senior wellness. As we’ve covered before, studies routinely show the huge benefits that seniors get when they live with others and have the chance for daily social interaction. Living with other seniors can not only help provide a welcoming and warm environment in which to live, it can also have important health benefits as well.

To learn more about how Sunbound can help make paying for senior living and senior care more affordable for you or your senior loved one, send us an email at info@sunboundhomes.com or request more information on Sunbound. Sunbound is the best way to pay for senior living and senior care, and we’re on a mission to make senior living and senior care more affordable for everyone.