Living options for seniors after retirement
Jan 19, 2021, 3:24 PM | Updated: Jan 20, 2021, 1:17 am
Choosing a living arrangement for a parent may feel overwhelming, but having an idea of how much independence versus assistance is needed will help.
Fortunately, senior living is not a one-size-fits-all situation, as multiple options exist to meet the needs of retirees. To help, here are several options that cover the range of what your loved one will need.
In-home care and skilled nursing
If your parent wants to stay at home but needs assistance with daily living or medical care, you can help schedule in-home care and nursing visits.
You can arrange for almost any type of help, including with hygiene, housekeeping, meal preparation, and even money management for paying bills or understanding insurance. For anything you cannot help your parent with, look for trustworthy paid or free community resources.
Independent living communities
If your parent is healthy and able to live alone but wants to live in an area with other seniors, an independent living community is a great option. With independent living, seniors typically have their own home in a community that offers opportunities for socializing.
“Such communities offer seniors the chance to form new friendships and enjoy a wide range of social and cultural activities,” The Retreat at Alameda says. “Your family member will have the freedom of an independent lifestyle with the security of community living.”
Many independent living communities offer group outings, dining options, and shared amenities, which may include pools, libraries, meeting rooms, and fitness centers.
Assisted living
When your parent needs help with daily living, assisted living communities may be the way to go.
“You should begin considering assisted living when there are major concerns about your family member’s ability to perform standard tasks or activities of daily living,” The Retreat at Alameda says. “Assisted living communities provide more care than independent living, yet still allow seniors independence where possible.”
Much like with independent living communities, assisted living offers social outings, classes, and game nights, while also providing personal care services and healthcare that allow seniors to stay as active and independent as possible.
“It’s important to recognize that assisted living is by no means a worst-case scenario for your loved one,” The Retreat at Alameda says. “There are many excellent communities that offer your loved one many benefits, including regular housekeeping, healthy meals, round-the-clock staff to help with personal care needs, and more.”
Nursing home
A nursing home is a good choice for a parent who needs constant medical care.
“Nursing homes, also called skilled nursing facilities, provide a wide range of health and personal care services,” the National Institute on Aging says. “Their services focus on medical care more than most assisted living facilities. These services typically include nursing care, 24-hour supervision, three meals a day, and assistance with everyday activities. Rehabilitation services, such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy, are also available.”
Nursing homes are available for short-term stays, perhaps after time spent in the hospital, as well as long-term living. Many nursing homes have social activities to fit the lifestyles of their residents.
As you research the best options for your senior parent, consider The Retreat at Alameda, an assisted living community coming to the Phoenix area that also offers a separate and secure memory care community. For more information or to schedule a pre-leasing appointment, visit RetreatSeniorLiving.com.