When an older loved one needs a change of pace, senior living is a great way to go. These communities are designed to help older adults in need. However, it’s not about restricting independence or taking charge—it’s about stepping in to help them maintain the life they love to live.
Retirement homes, also called “senior living communities” are an amazing way to help. There are several types of different communities, each with different benefits and types of care. With a move to senior living, your loved one receives a personal approach to care. It’s an excellent decision.
Understanding Senior Living Communities
Senior living communities are residential environments designed to support older adults in need. They stand out by offering more than just a place to live—these communities also offer:
- Access to on-site caregivers (if needed)
- Social amenities and programs
- Engaging experiences and events
- Safety features to promote a healthy lifestyle
- A maintenance-free lifestyle
These communities focus on providing an environment where older adults can connect, explore new interests, and continue living the life they love. And if they need professional care from an experienced team, it’s always within reach.
The Different Types of Senior Living Communities
There are several types of senior living communities. Each of these is designed to offer a different level of support:
- Independent living
- Assisted living
- Memory care
- Respite care
So how can you tell which is right for a loved one?
Independent Living
Independent living communities are ideal for seniors looking to simplify and downsize their lives. These communities offer a maintenance-free lifestyle full of convenience and new experiences.
In independent living, your loved one has the freedom to live the life they choose. Meanwhile, they enjoy easy access to social events, recreational areas, and more. These communities usually don’t have caregivers and are ideal for older adults who can stay entirely dependent.
Assisted Living
Assisted living focuses on blending independence with care. These communities offer professional support for daily tasks like bathing, grooming, or housekeeping. Where possible, assisted living communities foster a strong sense of independence and autonomy.
This type of senior living is ideal for older adults who value their independence but need some daily support to maintain their lifestyle.
Memory Care
Memory care is designed to support older adults with memory-related conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. These conditions pose unique challenges that require a special touch, and it’s important to meet residents where they are on their journey to give them the care they deserve.
At Somerby Mount Pleasant, our Lilac Trace Memory Care lifestyle offers a supportive environment that treats your loved one as the unique individual they are. It’s an excellent way to offer a respected, dignified lifestyle that understands your loved one’s needs.
Respite Care
Short-term stays, also known as respite care, offer temporary medical support and care. These are particularly ideal for when:
- A person’s primary caregiver needs a break
- A person is recovering from a recent surgery or illness
- A person wants to try senior living for a short time
Short-term stays offer a way to spend a short time in a senior living community and receive professional support. They’re able to enjoy all the experiences and services the community has to offer.
How to Talk to a Parent About Senior Living
When your loved one is retired, they deserve a way to keep living the life they love. Choosing the right senior living community is key, but how do you do this?
First, you’ll need to sit down together and assess their needs. Try to ask the following questions:
- What daily activities do you enjoy the most?
- Are there any tasks you need help with?
- How important is social interaction to you?
- What hobbies or interests would you like to continue pursuing?
- Do you have any specific medical or care requirements?
These questions can help you narrow down what lifestyle is right for your loved one. Then, it’s time to research communities in your area to find a place that meets their needs.
How to Choose the Right Senior Living Community
Choosing the right senior living community starts with a thorough understanding of your loved one’s preferences and needs. You’ll need to consider the location—how close does your loved one want to be to your family and friends?
Once you have a rough location in mind, start thinking about your budget. Consider how your family will pay for the services, and try to plan to meet your loved one’s needs without compromising on their quality of life. Some communities change fee structures depending on individual circumstances, so you’ll need to research ahead of time to understand what lies ahead.
Fortunately, senior living communities let you schedule visits ahead of time. This way, you can see the community for yourself and determine the:
- Environment and atmosphere of the community
- Available amenities and activities
- Qualifications and experience of the staff
- Types of care and support services available
- Access to healthcare and medical support
Not all senior living communities are alike. Some offer independent living while others focus on memory care. Make sure to involve your loved one in this conversation—their input matters. It’s key to work together to find their future home.
Finding the Right Senior Living Community
Senior living communities offer a unique way to support an older loved one in need. Remember—the move to senior living is about helping them live the life they want. And here at Somerby Mount Pleasant, we’re proud to offer all 4 types of senior living. This way, we can support your loved one in a way that makes a difference. To learn more, schedule your visit with us today!
