Say “senior living” and many people don’t really know what to picture. Or, even worse, they think of some antiquated image from a black and white movie they saw when they were a child (think Shirley Temple or even Charlie Chaplin). The truth is, today’s senior living options offer older adults a world of benefits and perks—all it takes is a clear understanding of each.
Senior living options
Independent Living
Residents of independent living sometimes say it feels like they’re on a cruise that never ends. That’s because this is a lifestyle for older adults who are living successfully on their own, without need of assistance. The lifestyle is designed to offer newfound freedom (no home maintenance or daily chores) that enables residents to be as active and engaged as they choose, benefitting from a setting designed for healthy aging.
Assisted Living
For a senior who needs an occasional helping hand, or who might just prefer the company of others instead of living alone at home, assisted living can be an ideal choice among the senior living care options. Assisted living residents enjoy knowing they no longer have to take care of a home, do the dishes, or drive themselves to a grocery store or physician. Instead, they can relax in a supportive environment that feels like home, only with lots of activities to choose from and great friends just steps away.
Assistance is provided as needed with activities of daily living, such as dressing, grooming, medication management, and more. Residents enjoy delicious, chef-prepared meals, services such as transportation and housekeeping, fitness and wellness programs, and socialization.
Download your free copy of our Family Decision Toolkit.
Memory Care
Memory care is specifically designed to address memory issues and the cognitive decline that can occur as a result of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Residents can expect a lifestyle that promotes compassion, dignity and respect in a safe and secure environment. Specially trained caregivers understand the importance of building close relationships with each resident.
In addition to 24-hour monitoring, residents benefit from assistance with all activities of daily living, as well as nutritious dining served in a soothing atmosphere.
Skilled Nursing
Among the senior living care options, this is the most intensive. Skilled nursing is designed for those who require post-hospital, post-surgical, or more complex around-the-clock nursing care. Supervision includes registered and licensed nurses as well as certified nursing assistants. Residents benefit from individual care plans and services such as housekeeping and laundry, transportation services and more. Social and recreational activities are often available. In addition, residents often have access to on-site physical, occupational and speech therapies.
Senior living options: knowing which is right
With a basic understanding of the available senior living options, you will find it easier to decide which is right for you or your loved one. Of course, you will want to do more research and visit several communities so you can see firsthand how each one approaches healthy aging.
The Herrick House allows you or your loved one to continue the lifestyle you want in a warm and supportive atmosphere without the worries of maintaining a home. We invite you to learn more.
Independence and companionship, with a little help and a lot of caring. Download your free copy of our Family Decision Toolkit. Contact us to learn more about The Herrick House or to schedule a tour.
