What is the difference between Assisted Living and Independent Living?
Independent Living
- Senior Independent Living communities are less expensive than Assisted Living communities and rent is all inclusive.
- Caters to seniors usually 55 and up who are still independent with few medical problems and need very little assistance with their daily needs.
- They can ambulate independently or with the assistance of a cane, walker or wheel chair.
- They can provide their own daily hygiene and administer their own medication or with help from a contracted agency, home health / hospice agency, family member or sitter.
- Residents live in fully equipped private apartments with kitchenettes and have weekly housekeeping provided.
- A variety of apartment sizes are available from studios to large two bedrooms.
- Fine dining services are offered with 3 meals a day or a selected meal package plan.
- Residents are free to come and go as they please and can have overnight guests. They may own their own vehicle and still drive.
- Transportation is provided for numerous social outings, events and appointments for those who do and do not drive. Activities are provided daily.
- There is staff on site 24/7 in case a medical emergency arises.
Assisted Living
- Assisted Living communities are much more expensive than Senior Independent Living Communities because you are paying for 24/7 inhouse and medical assistance.
- Suggested for seniors who are no longer able to live independently and safely on their own but do not meet the criteria for a higher level of nursing home care.
- They have licensed medical staff that administers medications, provide assistance with activities of daily living, bathing, meals and housekeeping.
- Three meals per day are provided and resident is usually required to come to the central dining area.
- Residents live in private apartments which usually has very limited kitchen access.
- Staff is available 24 hours per day for additional safety.
- The hours fluctuate for visitation in Assisted Living.
- Social activities and scheduled transportation are also available in most Assisted Living communities.
- Special units for Alzheimer’s residents are available in some Assisted Living Facilities.
