Senior living can be a generic term used and can include 55+ active living, independent living, assisted living, or memory care. Below are some differences between the different types of facilities along with the care they offer:
55+ Active Living – As you search for senior living possibilities, you may have seen something described as an “active adult community.” These communities are for ages 55 and over, making them “age-restricted” or “age-qualified” areas, typically meaning someone in residence must be at least 55 years old. These communities may include single-family houses, multi-family patio homes, condos, or townhomes. Units are owned or leased by the resident. Unlike some senior living communities, active adult communities may not have on-site dining for residents and may not provide any healthcare services.
Independent Living – Independent living is ideal for individuals who can still live on their own but have access to support when required. Independent living communities give residents convenient access to dining, medical care, entertainment, and more. This lifestyle provides residents a safe environment, however, only with essential assistance. Hospitality services like meals, housekeeping, and on-location laundry may or may not be included in the monthly cost.
Assisted Living – A typical resident in an assisted living facility in McKinney or other cities would be a senior over 55 years of age, who does not need intensive medical care that a nursing home provides, but needs companionship, planned activities, two to three meals per day and some assistance with day-to-day living. Most have apartments with kitchens or kitchenettes. The most important issue to acknowledge is that assisted living residences are communal living. This means individuals live together and choose to share some facilities and other resources and promote a human connection.