Not everyone understands what differentiates assisted living from independent living. In fact, there are common misconceptions about both types of senior living that can make it difficult for older adults and their loved ones to know which community is best suited to their needs. Here, we can help you distinguish between the two and make a more informed decision.
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is a level of care aimed at older adults who can no longer perform the daily activities of living without a helping hand or require regular medical assistance. Residents of assisted living communities are supported by a compassionate team of caregivers who are available to help them complete tasks as simple as dressing, bathing and managing their medication. They provide round-the-clock support so that residents can get the care they need and live each day to the fullest.
What is Independent Living?
Independent living is often confused with assisted living, but the two types of senior living have distinct differences. Moving into an independent living community does not mean you are giving up your independence. Independent living communities are designed to empower residents to make the most of their later years by taking care of everyday tasks like home maintenance and cleaning. This frees residents up to take advantage of the various services and amenities available to them on-site as part of the senior retirement community they now call home.
The important thing to remember about independent living communities is that it offers all the freedoms of living on your own without the burdens of home ownership.
When to Consider Assisted Living
How do you know whether assisted living or independent living is right for you or your loved one? You are not the only person to have asked that question. While there are a number of factors to consider, there are warning signs you can keep an eye out for:
- Activities of daily living become more of a challenge. Struggles with tasks as common as bathing, dressing, toileting, getting out of bed and eating.
- Risk of injury around the house. Lacking the mobility to move around the house freely and independently can lead to a fall or other serious injury. If falls are becoming frequent, assisted living can provide the care necessary to reduce them.
- Managing their health is becoming a concern. Chronic health conditions and difficulty managing medication are reason enough to consider assisted living.
- Asking too much of a caregiver. Caregiving can be both rewarding and stressful for the caregiver, who is a friend or family member in most cases. But the responsibilities of being a caregiver can take a toll. If the stress becomes too much, caregiver burnout is a very real possibility and would have a negative impact on everyone involved.
Benefits of Assisted Living at Querencia
Just because assisted living provides for different needs than independent living does not mean there are fewer benefits. In fact, assisted living residents at Querencia have access to quite a few services and amenities aimed at enriching their everyday lives. Not only can they expect to receive personalized assistance, but they are also treated to chef-prepared meals daily. Therapy services are also available to residents, in addition to a wellness program that promotes health conduction and develops individualized fitness plans. There are also activities and group outings that allow assisted living residents to be active and engaged every day.
If you think Querencia might be a good fit for you or your loved one, call us at 512-610-9440 or fill out the form below. We’re happy to help you explore the different levels of care.
