MOUNT VERNON – As people age, it's important to choose a care service that fits them best.
Not all seniors need the care that comes with assisted living communities. Some are better in independent living communities while others may need the extra daily care.
Learning the difference between independent and assisted living communities can help you pick the best one for you or your loved one, Caring Advisor said on its website.
Independent living is an option for seniors who are capable of having an active lifestyle on their own but may want assistance with menial tasks and socialization in a community with similar seniors.
"Independent living residents are, as the name implies, living independently," Caring Advisor said. "The main draw for them to join one of these retirement communities is not medical care, but instead socialization and connection with other seniors in the same stage of life. If you or your loved one is capable of living independently but still seeking more peace of mind and fewer responsibilities, independent living may be the housing option for you."
Assisted living is different from independent living because the senior requires care on a daily basis that wouldn't be received in independent living.
"Assisted living care communities focus on assisting seniors with the activities of daily living (ADLs)," Caring Advisor said. "These activities are things that are basic necessities for living on one’s own; they include things like showering, hygiene, mobility, medication management and eating alone. If you or your family member are struggling with these activities, that’s a sign that assisted living could be a good option."
Country Club Rehabilitation Campus is an independent living community that lets seniors make all of their decisions for themselves, such as when they wake up, when they eat, what they eat and what they do to pass their time.
