Understanding the different levels of senior living
Whether you’re a new retiree planning the next few decades or a child facing the changing health of a parent, learning the senior living lingo can be daunting. But it doesn’t have to be!
Here’s your complete guide to each senior living care level to help you choose the perfect community for your desired lifestyle and healthcare needs.
Independent Living
Independent living residents are active adults over age 65. Most are mobile with little to no outside assistance. Commonly referred to as “retirement homes” or “senior housing,” independent living communities offer residents the opportunity to live in private homes or apartments while still participating in frequent community activities and outings.
These communities provide services such as housekeeping, laundry and maintenance so residents can live comfortably and pursue their passions without having to worry about daily chores.
Assisted Living
Assisted living communities are designed for elders who live independently but may need additional help with basic tasks such as bathing, dressing and cooking. Residents here often require a wheelchair or walker for mobility. Assisted living offers residents the opportunity to live in a supportive and active community even as medical needs increase beyond independent care.
While assisted living residents still live in private rooms or apartments, these communities provide daily services including medication management, transportation and meal preparation.
Memory Care
Memory care communities are communities specifically designed for those with dementia, Alzheimer’s or other memory impairments. These communities can accommodate both functioning and nonfunctioning memory care patients. Depending on the patient’s needs and lifestyle, care provided by memory care communities ranges from assisted living services to skilled nursing services.
Skilled Nursing
Skilled nursing communities are those traditionally referred to as “nursing homes.” Residents in skilled nursing have medical care needs that require more involved care, typically on a 24/7 basis. Skilled nursing communities provide residents and their families the opportunity to choose between a private or semi-private room where trained nursing staff care for the elder around the clock.
Regardless of which care level best suits your needs, each Buckner Senior Living community empowers residents to fully live their lives and pursue their passions. Staff members go above and beyond to create a family atmosphere that lets residents know they are wanted, they are loved and this is home.
To speak with a Buckner Senior Living representative about which community may be best for you, call 800-381-4551 and schedule a visit today.