Deciding where to live as one ages presents new challenges for many seniors. Anticipating and planning for this stage of life is difficult because how well we will age and how long we will live is unpredictable. Average life expectancy is lengthening, increasing the potential for chronic health conditions that may threaten independence. The most important factors for evaluating housing options is becoming familiar with the variety of senior housing choices and the health and mobility criteria for living in these various types of senior housing levels. Another important factor to consider is that many senior housing locations have waiting lists; starting your search early before the actual need arises is very helpful. You can often put your name or a loved one's name on a waiting list to plan ahead and hopefully avoid a crisis.
Continuum of Care
Continuum of care retirement communities offer several care levels at one
location, from retirement housing through assisted living and skilled nursing.
As your health needs change, you can move through the levels of care without
relocating.
Retirement Communities
Retirement communities offer apartment living on a rental basis. Communal dining
and a full range of activities are available. Housekeeping, laundry, and
assisted living services are sometimes available.
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities offer an independent environment with 24-hour
personal assistance. Several options are available: freestanding large
facilities, personal care boarding homes, or continuum of care facilities.
Services usually include communal meals, housekeeping, social activities, and
assistance based on personal needs.
Skilled Nursing
Skilled nursing facilities are licensed to provide 24-hour medical services by
registered nurses and other professionals for the chronically ill not requiring
hospitalization. This is the highest level of nursing care available outside of
hospitalization.
Active Independent Living
Active independent living communities refers to retirement communities designed
for active seniors. These communities usually feature low-maintenance
apartments, condominiums, town homes, or ranch-style residences. Communities may
be designed around recreational activities such as golf, swimming, boating, or
fitness. Amenities vary between communities and may have age restriction
covenants.
Alzheimer's Assisted Living
Alzheimer's assisted living provides 24-hour assistance with dressing, bathing,
meals, medication monitoring, and transfer assistance. These large and small
facilities have secure areas both inside and outside where residents are free to
move about.
Alzheimer's Skilled Nursing
Alzheimer's skilled nursing provides long-term, 24-hour nursing care. This is
the highest level of nursing care available outside of hospitalization. Some
facilities accept only "non-wandering" Alzheimer's patients.