As seniors and their families explore housing options after deciding that living alone or in a home that is just too large to maintain, one of the most significant decisions they face is whether to choose an independent living community or a community that offers assisted living. These choices offer distinct lifestyles and social and physical benefits with various levels of support, catering to diverse needs as people age. This guide will break down the differences between these options, the key decision factors to consider, and tips for choosing between independent living and assisted living.
What is Independent Living?
Independent living, commonly referred to as, a retirement community, continuing care retirement community or retirement home is designed for seniors, usually those aged 55+, who can manage their daily lives without the need for extensive personal or medical assistance.
Sonida Senior Living independent living communities emphasize the ultimate in convenience, leisure and a sense of community while eliminating home maintenance responsibilities, like yardwork or home repairs.
Key Features of Independent Living
Sonida Senior Living independent living communities offer active seniors the opportunity to build a lifestyle that reduces stress while maintaining autonomy. Check out the additional benefits below and what to expect in independent living.
- Amenities include dining options at the on-site dining room, transportation to local stores and entertainment venues, housekeeping options and recreational activities such as on-site swimming pools, putting greens and community gardens.
- Private apartments or single-family detached homes with full kitchens or kitchenettes allowing privacy and the ability to still cook in a kitchen.
- Social opportunities to foster community and engagement.
- Access to services that make aging easier, such as meal preparation or light cleaning.
Each Sonida Senior Living community offers its own set of amenities and features. Click here for additional details.
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted living offers a balance between independence and support for seniors who need help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, medication management, or mobility. Sonida Senior Living assisted living facilities offer support with daily activities and access to caregivers 24 hours a day, 7 days a while providing as much independence as possible.
Key Features of Assisted Living
Assisted living communities (sometimes also referred to as retirement communities) provide care and services in a social, community-like living environment. They focus on maximizing the quality of life and independence for seniors. Along with engaging activities, assisted living communities also organize tailored care plans, wellness and exercise programming and healthy meals for seniors. Below are additional benefits to expect from assisted living:
- Assistance with activities of daily living.
- On-site staff available 24/7.
- Options for meal plans, housekeeping, and laundry.
- Access to medical care and wellness programs.
This option works well for seniors who want independence but need reliable support with day-to-day tasks. At Sonida Senior Living, staff provides medication management, incontinence management, escorts around the community and coordination of supplemental health care services, like physical or occupational therapy.
Some of our assisted living communities also offer early-stage or mild dementia care.
Before a resident moves in, our caregivers will perform a thorough health assessment and develop an individual service plan that outlines exactly what you need, how often and who will provide it.
Each Sonida Senior Living community offers its own set of amenities and features to accommodate different needs and lifestyles. Click here for additional details.
Key Decision Factors
When deciding between independent and assisted living, seniors and their families should consider the following factors before making a final decision between independent and assisted living:
Health and Physical Abilities
The number one factor to think about in choosing between independent living and assisted living is to evaluate the current and future health needs of the senior. While independent living suits those who are active and healthy, assisted living provides vital support for individuals with chronic illnesses, mobility issues or other health concerns that need to be monitored on a daily basis.
Questions to Ask:
- Can daily tasks like bathing, dressing, or cooking be completed independently?
- Are there any chronic medical conditions that require monitoring or frequent care?
- Is mobility a concern, such as using a walker or wheelchair?
Desired Lifestyle
Consider the type of lifestyle the senior prefers. Independent living offers autonomy and a vibrant social environment, while assisted living emphasizes safety and personalized care based on physical and mental needs.
Questions to Ask:
- Does the senior value complete independence in their daily routines?
- Are they looking for social engagement and group activities?
- Do they feel more secure with 24-hour assistance?
Safety and Accessibility
It’s imperative to evaluate the safety of the current living environment for the senior, especially if they’re living alone in their own home, and whether it meets accessibility needs. If the senior needs increasingly more assistance with daily tasks such as getting dressed, cooking and overall hygiene, assisted living is an option to consider.
Questions to Ask:
- Are there safety risks in the home, such as stairs or a lack of grab bars in bathrooms?
- Would a community with on-call support provide peace of mind?
- Is the senior at risk of falls, wandering or other safety concerns?
Financial Considerations
Cost is a critical factor when choosing between assisted living and independent living. Independent living typically costs less than assisted living, but assessing what each covers is essential. The cost of senior living can run anywhere between $2,000-$7,000 a month. Keep in mind, the following factors contribute to the overall price, including the type of community (independent living or assisted living), the level of care required, the type of apartment selected (studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, etc.) and the community location. Medicare does not cover the cost of assisted or independent living, either. Some Sonida Senior Living location may accept Medicaid. Please call us to discuss pricing options further.
In addition, click here to download a cost of living worksheet to help you determine the cost of living in senior living vs. staying home. You may be surprised to find that a senior living community is often more affordable than staying at home, thanks to all that’s included in the monthly rent.
Questions to Ask:
- What is the senior’s budget for housing and care?
- Are there financial resources like long-term care insurance or benefits available?
- Does the cost of assisted living include all necessary services?
Social Connections and Engagement
Both independent and assisted living offer social opportunities, but the level and type of engagement may differ depending on community location. Many of the Sonida Senior Living communities offer a wide range of activities and social opportunities including garden clubs, sewing clubs, book clubs, arts and crafts and excursions to local entertainment venues like plays and the movie theater.
Questions to Ask:
- Is the senior seeking an active social life with peers?
- Do they require assistance to participate in activities or outings?
- How important is being part of a community to their mental well-being?
Future Needs
None of us know what the future holds, making it much more important to plan for long-term changes. While independent living may be suitable for now, transitioning to assisted living may become necessary if either physical or mental health declines.
Questions to Ask:
- Is the chosen community part of a continuum of care (e.g., it offers both independent, assisted living and possibly memory care if there is a risk of Alzheimers)?
- Are there options for aging in place within the community?
- How easy would it be to transition to a higher level of care if needed?
Making the Right Decision
Choosing between independent living and assisted living requires balancing the senior’s current abilities, preferences and financial resources. Check out our steps below to guide your decision-making process:
- Conduct an Honest Assessment: Take stock of the senior’s physical, emotional and financial needs.
- Tour Communities: Visit independent and assisted living facilities to get a sense of the environment, staff and available amenities.
- Involve the Senior in Decisions: Whenever possible, include the senior in discussions to ensure their preferences are considered.
- Consult Professionals: Reach out to healthcare providers or geriatric care managers for personalized recommendations.
- Plan for the Future: Choose an option that can adapt to changing needs over time.
Deciding between independent living and assisted living is a deeply personal choice that depends on individual circumstances. Seniors and their families can find a solution that promotes well-being and peace of mind by considering key factors such as health, safety, lifestyle and finances. After all, the ultimate goal is to ensure a fulfilling and safe environment where seniors can thrive and live out their golden years in peace and with a support group in place for their evolving needs.
Contact us to schedule a tour of a Sonida Senior Living community, or to request more information about a community near you. Don’t wait to start living your best life – join Sonida Senior Living and find your joy here!
Find a community
If you’re a senior or caregiver looking for independent living, assisted living or memory care services for you or your loved one, contact us to schedule a tour or request information about a community near you.
Three Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Become a Caregiver to Your Aging Parents
If you have an elderly parent or relative who needs or will need a full-time caregiver or assisted living, you’re not alone.
