Stay at home, or move to a lifestyle offering more support and convenience? It’s a question that often comes up when considering the pros and cons of senior living. There’s a lot to consider, whether you are looking for yourself, or for an older loved one. And as with any major decision, it’s smart to carefully assess each option to make sure the one you select meets your needs.
At The Herrick House, we believe nothing is more important than making sure everyone feels at home and is enjoying a high quality of life. As your trusted advisor, we are here to answer any questions you may have.
Here’s a quick overview at the pros and cons of senior living:
Independent Living
As defined by The National Council on Aging, independent living communities are a great option for older adults who are in generally good health but don’t want the burden of home ownership. Personal care services, such as help with bathing or dressing, are not offered in independent living, but residents can receive these services through third-party providers, such as home health aides. Independent living communities typically offer a full calendar of social activities.
Pros:
- Choice of living options
- Freedom from the hassles of chores and home upkeep
- Wide range of amenities and social opportunities
Cons:
- Not ideal for those needing assistance with activities of daily living
- Onsite medical care is not typically offered
- Stress of downsizing
Assisted Living
For an adult who would appreciate a greater degree of safety, personal care assistance and social interaction, assisted living can be an excellent choice. For example, at The Herrick House, you or your loved one can receive daily support, while at the same time, maintain a high degree of independence and choice—enjoying perks such as exceptional dining, engaging amenities, welcoming neighbors and more in a friendly and supportive setting.
As you examine the pros and cons of senior living, keep in mind that assisted living is an invitation to relax and enjoy life, free from home maintenance or the isolation of living alone.
Pros:
- Onsite medical care that can adapt to changing needs
- Assistance with activities of daily living
- Social opportunities and freedom from chores and home upkeep
- Less caregiver stress and more free time
- Ability to be daughter, son, husband or wife again versus full-time caregiver
Cons:
- Intensive medical care or specialized care (memory care) may not be available
- Can be challenging to adjust to a group environment
Memory Care
Memory care is specifically designed to provide 24-hour care for those with Alzheimer’s disease or other form of dementia. Other benefits include safety, nutrition, and professional support, as well as activities and programs that provide mental stimulation and interaction.
Pros:
- Specialized care for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia including therapeutic programming
- 24-hour supervision in safe, secure environment
- Social opportunities and a comforting structured daily routine
- Less caregiver stress and more free time
- Ability to be daughter, son, husband or wife again versus full-time caregiver
Cons:
- Stress of being in an unfamiliar setting
- Challenges of adjusting to a group environment
- Potentially limited availability
Download our free guide, Should You Stay or Should You go? How to Decide Between Home and Senior Living.
Skilled Nursing
For those who require 24-hour supervised care such as would be provided in a hospital setting. There is usually a licensed physician or nurse on site. Short-term skilled nursing is for those who are recovering from surgery, hospitalization and/or illness and need rehabilitation or more time before returning home.
Pros:
- Physician, nurse, therapists onsite
- 24-hour care, monitoring and assistance
- Social opportunities, activities and nutritious, balanced meals
Cons:
- Environment may seem more clinical, institutional
- Lack of privacy
- Stress of unfamiliar environment
Home Health Care
For those seniors who prefer to remain in their home, home health care may be an option, if certain requirements are met and the budget allows.
Pros:
- Comfort of being in a familiar place
- Range of service and care options available
- Can be used on an as-needed or 24-hour basis
Cons:
- Safety concerns around the house
- Keeping up with home maintenance and repair
- Few social opportunities and risk of isolation
Adult Day Care
In an adult day care center, older adults who need assistance and supervision during the day benefit from care and companionship.
Pros:
- Allows caregivers to work, go to school, run errands or have a needed break
- Offers a safe, supportive environment while the caregiver is away
- Offers social interaction and structure to daily activities
Cons:
- Limited hours
- Undertrained staff
- Hassle of getting to and from the daycare community each day
- Potentially a more limited scope of services than is needed
Consider the pros and cons of senior living. Then decide what feels right for your needs.
The Herrick House sets itself apart from other assisted living communities by offering 24-hour on-site licensed nursing, along with a host of health care coordination services delivered through our Wellness Center. Independence and companionship, with a little help and a lot of caring.
We’d love to tell you more.
We are your friends, your supporters, your trusted advisors. Download our free guide, Should You Stay or Should You go? How to Decide Between Home and Senior Living, or contact us. We’d love to hear from you.