Lisa Conway – FLORIDA TODAY
Q: What are some residential options for people as they age?
A: As we age, our needs and preferences often change. This may prompt consideration of various living options, especially those tailored to meet the unique requirements of seniors. The choices available for seniors are many — and include a broad range of housing (and care) arrangements. Let’s look at some of the different options and what they offer.
Independent Living Communities
Independent living communities are designed for active and self-sufficient seniors who desire a maintenance-free lifestyle. These communities typically offer amenities such as recreational activities, social events and shared facilities. Residents live in private apartments or cottages and have the freedom to manage their daily routines while enjoying a supportive community.
Assisted Living Facilities
Assisted living facilities cater to seniors who require some assistance with activities for daily living, such as bathing, dressing, or medication management. The services they offer are tailored to individual needs. Residents often have their own apartments, while communal dining and social activities provide a sense of community.
Memory Care Units
For seniors dealing with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, memory care units provide a secure environment. Within assisted living communities or freestanding, they are staffed with professionals trained to address the unique challenges associated with memory loss and offer specialized care, activities, and safety features.
Skilled Nursing Facilities
Skilled nursing facilities (i.e. nursing homes), are suitable for seniors with complex medical needs or round-the-clock care requirements. On-staff medical professionals provide healthcare services, rehabilitation, and daily activities assistance.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)
CCRCs offer a “continuum of care,” allowing seniors to transition smoothly through different levels as their needs change. Communities typically include independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing on the same campus, providing long-term familiarity.
Home Care Services
Seniors who prefer to age in place can opt for in-home care services. Professional caregivers provide assistance with daily activities, transportation, meal prep and companionship, while allowing seniors to remain in the comfort of their own homes.
Choosing the right residential option for seniors involves factors such as health status, lifestyle preferences and budget constraints. For many seniors, more supportive living arrangements enhances their quality of life and provides peace of mind for them– and their families. On Friday, March 1, join me for A Taste of Senior Living at the Center for Collaboration in Rockledge, where you can compare community types, win door prizes and sample delicious appetizers and desserts. For more information, call 321-751-6771.
One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Questions for this column are answered by professionals in nursing, social work, care management and in-home care. Send questions to askOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging. Lisa Conway is a Registered Nurse, Certified Dementia Practitioner and a Certified Care Manager for Senior Partner Care Services, Viera. Ms. Conway hosts a monthly seminar, ‘Senior Health Friday with Nurse Lisa.’
