Age can sometimes bring complex changes. Some older adults simply want a simpler, more maintenance-free life. Others might be frustrated by some day-to-day tasks. Some may face cognitive challenges that impair their everyday abilities. If your loved one is in one of these situations, senior living communities can likely help.
Senior living communities tailor care towards your loved one’s needs. This helps your loved one stay independent in their day-to-day life and encourages them to live the life they enjoy. Through a combination of personalized care and support, senior living communities foster a strong sense of independence.
Why Independence Is Important for Seniors
Independence is a valuable thing. It has a significant impact on the quality of life for older adults. It helps them keep a sense of control over their life, and it’s crucial for mental well-being and self-esteem. Independence has plenty of benefits for seniors.
One key factor is safety. When your loved one can stay independent, they’re less likely to face accidents or injuries. Being autonomous means they can live comfortably in a safe environment of their own choosing.
However, many seniors face age-related changes that make independence riskier. Age brings about many physical and cognitive changes. From flexibility changes to decreased cognition, age often compromises independence.
Fortunately, senior living communities can help.
The Types of Senior Living Communities
Senior living communities are residential communities. They’re designed to support older adults through many different situations. However, these communities aren’t universal.
There are several levels of care, each tailored towards a different need. Here at Somerby Franklin, we offer 3 different lifestyles:
- Independent living
- Assisted living
- Memory care
So what are the differences between these?
What Is Independent Living?
Independent living is tailored to older adults looking to downsize and simplify their lives. These communities provide a range of services and amenities to make everyday life more convenient. These include:
- Restaurant-style dining
- Fitness centers
- Spas and salons
- On-site libraries
- Common areas
Residents have a home where they’re surrounded by older adults at a similar stage in life. This lifestyle is about convenience, comfort, and independence.
Imagine a supportive environment based on supporting autonomy and a maintenance-free lifestyle—that’s independent living.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is designed for those who value their independence but need support with some daily tasks. It’s a supportive environment where residents can be autonomous, safe, and cared for.
When daily activities become more problematic, assisted living is an excellent choice. These communities offer support for tasks such as:
- Medication management
- Bathing and grooming assistance
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Meal preparation and planning
- Transportation assistance
These allow residents to enjoy life comfortably and securely. In assisted living, the blend of personal support and autonomy is built to help your loved one stay independent where they can.
What Is Memory Care?
Memory care is crafted specifically for older adults living with memory-related conditions. This lifestyle provides a nurturing, secure environment where your loved one can thrive.
The teams working in memory care are trained to offer specialized care tailored to the unique needs of those living with memory impairment. To help those in need, memory care offers:
- Structured daily routines to provide consistency and familiarity
- Safe and secure living areas to prevent wandering
- Cognitive and sensory activities to stimulate memory and engagement
- Family support and communication to keep loved ones connected
The focus is on giving your loved one the tools they need to thrive. Memory care is a lifestyle that truly understands the challenges faced by those living with cognitive decline. No matter where they are on their journey, this structured setup helps empower residents every day.
How to Choose the Right Senior Living Community
So how do you choose the right senior living community? Your first step should be to sit down with your loved one and work together to understand their needs. Make sure to think about:
- Their current level of independence and the type of support they require
- The range of services and amenities offered by each community
- The community’s location, accessibility, and proximity to family and friends
- Budget considerations and the types of financial support available
- The quality, training, and experience of the community’s staff and caregivers
These factors all make a significant difference, and they give you the tools you need to make an informed decision.
Making an Informed Decision
Typically:
- Independent living is ideal for older adults looking to simplify life and stay entirely independent
- Assisted living is ideal for older adults who value independence but need some everyday support
- Memory care is ideal for older adults living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or cognitive impairment
However, one of the easiest ways to make the decision is simple—to visit the community yourself.
Discover Independence with Somerby Franklin
Your loved one deserves to feel supported every day. It’s the key to staying independent with age. And here at Somerby Franklin, we’re ready to help.
In our community, we’ll work with your family to find the right lifestyle for your loved one. Contact our team today to schedule your visit!
