A Guide To the Different Types of Senior Care

Updated on December 30, 2021
A Guide To the Different Types of Senior Care

When choosing a care facility for yourself or a loved one, you’ll need to consider all your options carefully. You have a lot of details to think about, including medical needs, scheduling, and affordability. With all that in mind, the process can seem a little overwhelming. Make it easier on yourself by taking the time to learn the differences between each kind of senior care option. Most reputable care homes conduct pre-employment screening so they ensure they hire the right specialists. These services have a lot in common, but their distinctions make all the difference. Gain a clear understanding of each option with this guide to the different types of senior care.

Independent Living Facilities

Independent living centers don’t usually offer specialized healthcare or living assistance options. Instead, these types of senior care facilities revolve around providing social and recreational activities for their residents. While living on the facility’s campus or complex, seniors enjoy opportunities such as clubs, sports, and other group activities. Residents live independently in their own apartment or condominium within the center where they can spend their free time seeing visitors, hanging out with neighbors, or pursuing whatever interests they have. The primary purpose of independent living facilities is to provide a sense of community and opportunity, combatting the loneliness and boredom that can come with retirement.

Assisted Living Facilities

Assisted living centers also promote a sense of independence and community. However, unlike independent living facilities, these centers also offer personal care or healthcare services. Residents have their own units or apartments within the facility’s complex. The facility will also offer social and recreational activities for its residents. Meanwhile, personal care workers at the facility can provide assistance with everyday needs, such as eating meals, managing medications, dressing, or moving around. The facility itself probably won’t offer healthcare services, but it will recruit outside providers to either visit regularly or establish a practice within the complex.

At-Home Care

While many of the different types of senior care are outside facilities, some seniors prefer to age in place. For this reason, some agencies provide home care or home healthcare services. These services involve a personal care assistant or healthcare provider visiting the home and offering their assistance there. Just like with outside facilities, home care can range from personal assistance with everyday tasks to health checkups and more in-depth medical care. Some options, such as holistic home hospice care, offer all of these services and more. If you or your loved one wishes to stay in their home, make sure you find the right care provider to meet all their needs.

+ posts