Gaining an understanding of senior living care options is something everyone in retirement should do. Even if you are in great health now, knowing what the possibilities entail can make planning for the future much easier. Senior living care options have changed and are no longer one size fits all so take a look at what you can expect.
Active and independent
During the first years of retirement, you may need little help around the house, or you may just prefer to make the move to independent living where life is carefree. Not only do you no longer have to worry about home repair and maintenance, but also lawn care, snow removal, and the daily costs and concerns that come with being a homeowner. That’s why independent living is often the first choice among senior living care options.
In independent living you retain all the privacy and autonomy you have when living at home, with the added benefits of chef-prepared meals, onsite amenities like hair salons and barbershops, daily activities and events, and opportunities to exercise, socialize, learn new things, and lead an active life. The best part is it’s all one beautiful campus designed with seniors in mind so everything is nearby and easily accessible. For a look at different types of independent living communities check out the forbes.com article, What is Independent Living?
Can I get a little help?
Although you may not see it coming, at some point you may need more help with personal care, housekeeping, cooking, and medication management and this level of care is exactly what assisted living was designed for. Assisted living is like independent living in many ways with the addition of a helping hand when you need it. Among the senior living care options, assisted living is the perfect mix of independence and assistance so you can still do everything you want to do knowing that someone is always close by should you need them.
One of the best aspects of assisted living is the feeling that you are part of a community rather than living alone when you lose a spouse or partner and friends can’t get out on their own. Of all the senior living care options, assisted living is the perfect choice when care is needed because residents can relish their privacy at home or join in any of the fun things to do each day, without leaving home. That said, when going somewhere is necessary you can depend on local transportation to get you there, without having to bother family. But if you, like many seniors, think assisted living isn’t financially feasible, read our blog, Long-term Care Funding Options.
Memory loss and care
Living at home with memory loss from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease can be difficult for you and your family as the disease progresses and more and more care is needed. Memory loss is frustrating, but can also contribute to isolation and loneliness, which are unhealthy for seniors. Other problems arise when wandering occurs, medications are forgotten or accidents happen. Over time, trying to prepare for every eventuality can overwhelm even the most loving caregivers so it’s best to know the senior living care options.
Memory care provides around-the-clock care and security that can let you remain independent longer, while living in a secure community. According to the forbes.com article, Your Guide to Memory Care, the best memory care communities work hard to help residents stay as active and engaged as possible with help from trained staff who treat them with dignity and respect. Residents may receive different cognitive therapies as well, and of course great nutrition and physical activity are also part of the package.
Skilled nursing care
To get the medical care you need to rehabilitate following an illness or injury, skilled nursing is the best of senior living care options. Care is provided by licensed professionals in sync with your physician and can include therapies and other specialized treatment like wound care and pain management. Skilled nursing can help you recover as quickly as possible and get back to the business of living the life you love.
When considering senior living care options take a look at Lutheran Village at Miller’s Grant, where all the senior living care options are available and you and your family can rest assured that care is just one part of a fun and healthy lifestyle. Download our Stay or Go Guide for more help making the right decision and contact us today to learn more about our wonderful community!
