One of the appeals of moving to a senior living community is the included services conveniently available on site. Each community provides different amenities, so you should consider which senior living services you would most likely use before deciding on a community. The more services provided, the higher the cost may be. If you are on a tight budget, you may want to compare the price of acquiring these services on your own and moving to a senior living that includes the services you need.
SeniorSmart can help you sift through the range of senior living options so that you can find the best senior community for your needs. Our members enjoy the advice and guidance they receive with our concierge-level services. Contact us today to learn more about our membership’s benefits and get help finding your ideal senior living community.
Senior Living Services Offered in Independent Living Communities
Independent living communities are designed for seniors who can care for themselves. However, they prefer the safety and sense of community that comes with living in a neighborhood of their peers. Independent seniors do not need the higher level of care available in an assisted living or memory care facility, so independent living communities typically have a lighter slate of senior living services. Fewer services also make them less expensive. The available services will vary from community to community, so we recommend that you compare the services offered at each.
Some of the senior living services you may find in an independent living community include:
- Home maintenance and repairs
- Yard work and landscaping
- Dining services
- Transportation
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Activities (on-site or field trips)
- Security (community may be gated)
As you look through independent living communities, you will notice that some communities offer few senior living services but are more affordable. Finding the right senior living option is often about striking the ideal balance between your budget and the services you truly need.
Senior Living Services Available in Assisted Living Communities
Seniors who choose assisted living communities need the additional care provided and can expect a more extensive list of senior living services available in these communities. When shopping for an assisted living community, consider the essential services for you and the additional cost of hiring out those services if your community does not provide them. For example, housekeeping may be an attractive option in an independent living community but a necessity in assisted living.
Some of the senior living services you may find in an assisted living community include:
- Assistance with daily hygiene, including bathing, dressing, and eating
- Home maintenance and repairs
- Meals
- Transportation
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Activities
- Security at a higher level than independent living
The main difference between the two types of communities is the higher level of care in assisted living. Assisted living is more like living in an apartment building rather than an individual home. Therefore, you will not need the yard work or landscaping services that independent living communities may provide. Families enjoy the peace of mind that comes with daily assistance for their loved ones in an assisted living facility.
SeniorSmart Supports Your Search for a Senior Living Community
Many seniors choose to move out of their homes and into senior living communities to take advantage of their services. These communities can allow you to live stress-free without having to worry about cooking, cleaning, and home maintenance so you can spend your time enjoying your retirement. Let SeniorSmart help guide you through the process of finding your just-right senior living options. Contact us today to enroll in our membership for guidance on senior living communities, retirement finances, and other topics that will enhance your senior lifestyle.
