How Do I Decide If Independent Living Is Right For Me?

Are you getting older and finding yourself in need of more help? Maybe you are getting older but feel you are getting along just fine taking care of yourself but family members are worried about you living alone.

How Do I Decide?

There are some things you will have to think about before you make the decision to enter an independent living or assisted living environment.

What is Independent Living?

This is housing for seniors who are active and do not require special care of any sort. They may want help with meals and housekeeping but they are able to take care of themselves. This includes things like bathe, manage medication and walk with or without the assistance of a cane or walker. These independent living facilities often offer transportation for medical, shopping and recreational opportunities if so desired. Of course, it you are still able to drive and have your own car these facilities also allow that.

What is Assisted Living?

Assisted living facilities are for seniors who need more help with their activities of daily living such as medication management, bathing etc. There are actually many facilities called Continuing Care Retirement Communities.

What are Continuing Care Retirement Communities?

These are facilities that are many times connected with independent living, assisted living facilities and nursing homes. The senior can enter at the independent living level and progress as necessary. This is definitely something to consider for many seniors as it gives a sort of the best of both worlds solution. You may never have to progress from the independent living level but if you do it’s peace of mind to know that you can. Often all of these “levels” are situated on the same grounds so you can keep the same friends you’ve met, be near others you know in the community and feel comfortable in your surroundings. You also can keep your same doctors etc. because your in the same area which is a bonus.

So How Do I Decide?

You have to seriously look at you situation both financially and from a health perspective. If you are generally healthy, it is best to enter an independent living facility if you want the benefits it can provide. This includes help with meals and housekeeping and transportation. If you are truly independent and still able to get around (drive) you may wish to stay in your home as long as possible and then move to an assisted living or nursing facility in the future if you need too. Keep in mind also that it is often financially beneficial to stay in your own home, especially if you own it outright.

Related posts

1. What are the Benefits of Assisted Living?
2. What is Assisted Living?
3. Why Choose Independent Living?
4. What Is The Difference Between Independent Living & Assisted Living?
5. What is independent living?

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