As people age, there comes a time when they may need assistance with daily tasks or want to downsize their living arrangements. This often leads to the decision of choosing between assisted living and independent living. While both options provide seniors with the opportunity to live in a community environment, there are some key differences between the two. In this article, we will explore the differences between assisted living and independent living, helping you make an informed decision for yourself or a loved one.
What Is Independent Living?
Independent living is designed for seniors who are capable of living on their own but prefer to live in a community environment that offers amenities, social activities, and the convenience of having services such as housekeeping and transportation available to them. Independent living communities, like Peace Village, are typically apartment-style living arrangements that offer various levels of support and services, depending on the needs of the residents.
Residents of independent living communities are typically free to come and go as they please and maintain their independence. They can cook their own meals, maintain their own homes, and manage their own healthcare needs. The communities often offer recreational activities, transportation, and various amenities, such as fitness centers, computer rooms and libraries.
Peace Village features a maintenance-free lifestyle with a flexible dining plan, utilities, cable, Wi-Fi campus-wide as well as a wide variety of social events and outings.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is a type of housing designed for seniors who require some level of assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. Assisted living communities are typically apartment-style living arrangements that provide residents with assistance as needed, including help with personal care, housekeeping, transportation, and medication management.
Residents of assisted living communities often have access to a range of amenities and social activities, but their needs for support and assistance are more significant than those of residents in independent living communities. Staff members are available 24/7 to provide support and assistance with daily tasks, as well as to respond to emergencies.
There are five levels of Personalized Care Plans for Peace Village’s assisted living apartments, Circle Inn. The levels are all designed to fit your needs, at the right time. Every assisted living apartment at Circle Inn is private, equipped with a full bath and kitchen area. Residents receive all the support they need, and may engage in all the social, educational and physical activities and opportunities throughout the community.
Differences Between Independent Living And Assisted Living
One of the primary differences between independent living and assisted living is the level of support and assistance provided. In independent living, residents are capable of living on their own and maintain their independence, while in assisted living, residents require some level of assistance with daily living activities.
Another difference between the two is the cost. Assisted living tends to be more expensive than independent living due to the level of care provided. Assisted living communities have more staff members, and residents require more personalized care and support.
Lastly, the type of housing and amenities available may differ between the two. Independent living communities are typically apartment-style living arrangements with a range of amenities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, and libraries. In contrast, assisted living communities also provide apartment-style living, but with additional safety features and amenities tailored to meet the needs of residents who require assistance.
Choosing between independent living and assisted living depends on your or your loved one’s needs. If you are capable of living on your own and maintain your independence, independent living may be the best option for you. However, if you require some level of assistance with daily living activities, assisted living may be the better choice.
When deciding between the two, it’s essential to consider the cost, the level of care needed, and the type of housing and amenities available. By taking these factors into consideration, you can make an informed decision that meets your or your loved one’s needs, allowing for a comfortable and fulfilling life in a community environment.
For more information on senior living in Palos Park, visit Peace Village today. Schedule a tour on the Peace Village website, call us at (708) 361-3683 or attend one of our upcoming events.