Frequently asked questions about senior living

Lean on our team of trusted advisors to help you navigate this journey. If you don’t see your question below, let us know.

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Caregiver icon.

Care and services

Explore the difference between assisted living, independent living, respite care, and memory care.

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Cost and coverage

Review the cost of senior living, what utilities and services are provided, plus payment options.

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Activities and lifestyle

Check out communitiy activities, daily meals offered, and pet-friendly options.

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An icon illustrating a barbell.

Health and safety

Learn about medical services, how to determine your level of care, and how we protect residents from COVID-19.

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Care and services

What is the difference between assisted and independent living?

Independent living offers all of the advantages of independence paired with an active community life and assistance when you need it. You get the convenience of living alone in an apartment but with built-in activities and various community amenities and services. There are no property taxes, and light assistance is available from outside agencies or private duty caregivers.

Assisted living communities are licensed by the state and operate under regulations that differ by state. Social activities, meals, housekeeping, laundry services, medication assistance, bathing assistance, and dressing assistance are available. Staff are on call 24/7 to respond to resident needs or emergencies. Residents usually have their own apartments, although some communities offer shared apartments to help with affordability.

How are memory care communities different?

Memory care facilities, also known as dementia care, are licensed by the state as an assisted living provider. Each state determines the regulations for communities to follow. These unique communities provide an environment that is comforting for seniors with cognitive challenges. Apartments and common areas are secured to provide a safe environment. There is usually more staff available to help provide specialized care for these residents. Apartments may be single or shared.

What is respite care?

Also called temporary stay, respite care is a short-term stay (a few days to a few weeks) at a community in a furnished apartment with access to all available amenities and services. We offer this option for seniors who need temporary stay in a caregiver’s absence, are recovering from an illness or injury or just want to try out a community before moving in permanently. Most of our communities offer temporary stay.

Short-term care allows you to temporarily move into a community, usually for a few days to a couple of weeks—in a furnished apartment. Seniors may need a temporary stay because their primary caregiver is not available due to illness, injury or a much-deserved vacation. For seniors who are used to living alone, they may need some assistance to recover from an illness or surgery. Temporary stay is an ideal way for a senior to try out a community before moving full time. Most Sonida Senior Living communities offer temporary stay.

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Costs and coverage

What is the cost of senior living?

The cost of senior living can run anywhere between $2,000-$7,000 a month, depending on many factors. The overall price you pay is influenced by the type of community (independent living, assisted living or memory care), the level of care you require, the type of apartment you select (studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, etc.) and where the community is located.

What utilities and services are included?

Included utilities vary by community. Electricity and gas are usually included. Some communities also add basic cable. Most do not include telephone service. Services like dining and cleaning, household maintenance and transportation are common inclusions, which often make senior living more affordable than staying at home. Compare costs.

How do people pay for senior living?

Our team of senior living advisors is here to walk you through all the details and provide information about levels of care, share tips to cut costs without sacrificing quality and suggest benefits and funding sources. Common funding sources include VA Aid and Attendance Pension Benefits, bridge loans to temporarily provide funding while permanent arrangements are made and convert your life insurance policy. Learn more about paying for senior living.

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Activities and lifestyle

How many meals are served daily?

It depends. Independent living communities tend to offer two full meals a day and a buffet or continental-style breakfast, while assisted living and memory care facilities provide three meals a day. The menus at each community vary, but most have an on-site culinary team to create delicious meals for residents.

What type of classes and amenities are offered at a senior living community?

Amenities vary by community. Most communities offer well-stocked libraries, computer rooms, lounge areas with large TVs and courtyards. Some also may have game rooms with billiards, beauty salons, exercise rooms and chapels for church services. View amenities and wellness.

Are your senior living communities pet friendly?

Most communities accept small pets. If you’re looking to get a pet after you move in, check with your community for suggestions of the best breeds.

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Health and safety

How are you protecting residents from COVID-19 and other infectious diseases?

The safety and well-being of our residents and team members is our highest priority. Our communities are a vital place for seniors who may otherwise be isolated at home and we take our responsibility to our residents seriously.

As one of the nation’s largest senior housing providers, our communities benefit from the knowledge and experience of an established leadership team. We are continuously in communication with industry leaders in an effort to provide the safest environment possible for our residents, team members and associates. Read about how we protect residents from COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.

How do you determine level of care?

For assisted living and memory care, a senior will have a care assessment prior to signing a lease that will determine the correct level of care and will help the clinical team develop a custom care plan. Along with our own assessment, Sonida Senior gets additional information from residents’ doctors about medications, diagnoses and any nursing needs.

Are all medical services offered on-site?

Medical services vary by community. Many have a medical provider on-site to make home visits for residents. This is especially helpful for residents in memory care settings as it eliminates the need to travel off-site for routine care. Some communities also offer on-site physical therapy, occupational therapy and chiropractic services. Home health agencies can provide skilled nursing services that a community cannot provide due to state regulations.

Ready to find a community near you?

Our team of senior living experts at your local community can answer any questions you might have and give you a tour of the community. Click below to search for a community near you and schedule a tour.