5 Differences Between Assisted Living and Independent Living

When living alone and maintaining a home starts to become overwhelming, it may be time to investigate different senior living options. Maybe you’re looking to increase your social circle or perhaps you want a bit more personal assistance. There’s peace of mind that comes from joining an active community and not having to worry about life’s everyday tasks.

The core difference between assisted living and independent living is in the level of service provided. The amount of personal care and medical assistance needed will determine which senior living lifestyle is best for you or your loved one.

Let’s explore 5 questions to ask when choosing between assisted living and independent living.

1. What Does Independent Living Provide?

An independent living community is suitable for physically independent seniors who wish to live among similarly aged residents. Residents at an independent living community are often there because they no longer choose to maintain or own a home. The living accommodations are typically private apartments or villas in a residential setting. 

Residents are able to perform daily functions independently but appreciate the convenience and amenities community living offers. These amenities include home maintenance, meal preparation, housekeeping and other services to make living easier. Fitness classes, day trips, cultural and educational opportunities encourage a healthy lifestyle. You can find independent living options at both Generations Senior Living locations. 

2. What’s Life Like at an Assisted Living Community?

Residents in assisted living communities are typically 65 and older and have specific medical or personal care concerns needing ongoing attention. A big difference between assisted living and independent living is that assisted living provides licensed nurses on staff as well as resident care attendants. Daily personal activities provided can include assistance with hygiene, grooming, dressing, and transferring.

Assistance with personal hygiene, mobility assistance, and medication management are all examples of services provided in an assisted living community. Service packages may also have more options with regards to housekeeping and laundry. Assisted senior living communities are licensed by the state, must follow state rules and regulations are routinely inspected.

3. What Amenities and Services Are Included in Assisted Living?

Isolation can become a major problem for seniors living alone. When you join a community, like Generations Senior Living, you will be immersed in a social environment with daily activities to stimulate healthy aging. The stress and burden of maintaining a home and medication routines are no longer an issue.

Some common assisted living services include:

• Registered dietician-approved home-cooked meals served three times a day
• Day trips, cooking demonstrations, game nights, exercise classes and other social activities
• Medication management by licensed nursing staff
• Assistance with personal care as needed
• Housekeeping and personal laundry services
• Short-term respite stays to recover after a surgery or illness or to just try it out
• On-site salon and barber services by licensed stylists 

4. What is the Price Difference Between Assisted Living and Independent Living?

Since the medical and nursing care is much greater for assisted living, the price is typically higher than for independent living. However, when compared to the cost of living alone, assisted living communities tend to be less expensive. There’s also the convenience of only having to pay one source instead of juggling multiple bills. Additionally, family-owned and operated communities like Generations Senior Living tend to be more affordable than large corporate businesses.

Generations Senior Living offers both independent and assisted living options at our Berea and Strongsville locations. We offer the opportunity to age in place by tailoring services and programs from an independent lifestyle to fully assisted living all within the comfort of your suite.

5. How Do Seniors Pay for Assisted Living or Independent Living?

Assisted living communities generally accept private payment. This payment may come from multiple sources, such as from the resident with their family and long-term care insurance policies. Medicare or Medicaid may also cover part of your costs.

Qualifying wartime veterans or their surviving spouse may apply for the VA Aid and Attendance Improved Pension. Financial support is available for qualifying individuals through the Assisted Living Waiver program administered by the Ohio Department of Aging. Contact us for assistance in learning how independent or assisted living are affordable options.

Which Type of Senior Living is Right for Me?

If you are looking to remove the financial and physical stress of homeownership, it’s a good time to move to a senior living community.

Generations Senior Living offers a unique opportunity for residents to enter an independent living community, then transition effortlessly to an assisted living lifestyle. You can always add additional services or programs as needed. Not only will you find an engaging atmosphere, but you’ll also have the peace of mind knowing you can make the transition within the comfort of your same suite.

Related question: How much does assisted living cost?