When considering the need for care in senior living, it is wise to make a lifestyle decision that addresses an older adult’s current level of independence, as well as future needs. You or a loved one might be a good candidate for independent living now, but finding a retirement living community that offers additional levels of care and services, such as assisted living and memory care, would be ideal as needs change.
Care in Senior Living: Options and Opportunities
Senior living communities may offer any or all of the following:
- Independent living is a great choice if you are presently enjoying an active, healthy lifestyle and require little daily assistance, with no chronic health issues requiring intensive attention. Independent living lets you trade the worry and cost of home upkeep for a carefree lifestyle offering companionship, entertainment, wellness, lifelong learning and a range of convenient services and exceptional amenities. Onsite care is typically not offered.
- Assisted living is best suited for the person who needs occasional support with the activities of daily living, such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and dining, but still desires a fully engaging lifestyle. Residents generally have access to all community amenities and services and are free to go about their day as they choose. This level of care in senior living offers a personalized care plan with just the right amount of support, along with the perks of a full-service community. It’s reassuring to know that assisted living staff is available 24/7 and that every effort is made to help you maintain your independence as much as possible. At Senior Star, we like to say assisted living is onsite care for everything small and large. That could be tying a shoe. Helping you get to the dining room. Or, reminding you to take medication. It’s all about giving you the extra help you need to make the most of life—what exceptional care in senior living should be.
- Memory care or memory support is designed to nurture and support those with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Specially trained staff work with each person to help them experience meaning and joy in each day. Insights gained from each life story are used to develop an individualized care plan for every resident. This plan is designed to promote physical and emotional well-being, prolong daily functioning, and help a person maintain a sense of purpose, satisfaction, dignity and quality of life.
A quality Memory Care community provides countless benefits, such as a setting designed for maximum safety, attention to health and nutrition, and professional support. But there are also beneficial activities and programs that provide mental stimulation and interaction.
For example, at Senior Star, our memory support residents can benefit from:
- Destination Stations®
- Snoezelen® Multi-Sensory Environments
- Dakim® BrainFitness Software
- Music & Memory Programming
- Signature Country Store Concept
- Lucynt Magic Table
Other features of this level of care in senior living include purposefully designed living spaces and social areas that soothe and stimulate. As well as an overall design that can safely engage residents in familiar activities such as gardening, kitchen work, and other life skills.
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Respite care is a short-term option – whether for a few days or a few weeks – that provides assistance with the activities of daily living, memory support, or skilled nursing care. Those receiving respite care in senior living benefit from an atmosphere of safety, wellness and personal attention while giving their caregivers a much-needed break. Personalized activities are based on individual interests to keep each resident engaged. Other features include health monitoring and medication management, dining, and a comfortable residence.
When it comes to care in senior living, making the right decision now brings precious peace of mind. No one has a crystal ball. But you can give some thought now to how you’d like your future to be in terms of where you live and who will care for you or your loved one if needs change. Choosing a senior living community with all levels of care gives you the reassurance you have a sound plan for the future.
With multiple locations providing varying levels of care, our associates are passionate about making our senior living communities a safe and happy home for all of our residents. Download our free guide Choosing The Right Community for more in-depth and helpful information. Questions about senior living? Contact us to learn more.