Community Confusion |
When it comes time to retire, there are many things to consider. First and foremost is the type of community you’ll want to live in. Many options are available, not just geographical, but type. Use this guide to help pick the right community for you:
Active Adult—This housing is available to age qualified adults renting or buying in a community of single family homes, mobile homes, condos and/or apartments. There is usually a variety of social, athletic and/or educational activities.
Senior Apartments—Apartment communities designed for age-qualified adults who want to be totally independent, but not live with the hassles of home ownership. Communities provide some services and activities designed for the independent senior.
Independent Living—These communities are designed for independent senior adults who desire a hassle-free lifestyle. Housing choices may be garden-styles homes, apartments or condos. Special services may include dining in a restaurant setting, housekeeping and/or laundry services. Social activities may be educational
or entertaining.
Assisted Living—This type of housing is available for those wanting a private residence but requiring additional assistance with medication and/or daily activities such as bathing, grooming and dressing. Skilled medical care is not provided in these communities. Meals are provided and social activities are available.
Skilled Nursing Homes—These communities offer skilled nursing care in a hospital-type atmosphere. Nursing homes care for those who need 24-hour medical attention or those who need short-term rehabilitation. They are licensed and regulated by state public
health departments.
Continuing Care—Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC) provide seniors with several housing choices at one location. A senior can move into the independent living area then as circumstances dictate, move to assisted living and skilled
nursing facilities.
Specialized Care—These housing choices are for those who need specific care.
Alzheimer’s Care—These communities serve adults with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory-related disorders, providing special care and services that cater to people with this disease.
Hospice Care—Hospice care is a special service designed for those in the final stages of a terminal disease. The compassionate care can be provided in a home, a hospice facility or a nursing home.
Respite Care—Some nursing homes or assisted living communities offer short term care for individuals who live with family members. They provide a period of relief for individuals who continuously care for elderly persons in their home.
Congregate Care—Congregate Care communities provide a common facility plus personal and some medical care for those who are dependent. In congregate care facilities, residents are assumed to be dependent on the staff for many everyday needs. Meals, housekeeping, personal care, and some amount of regular health care is provided. Residents are frequently monitored, sometimes around the clock.
Limited Nursing Skills (LNS)—This type of facility intends to provide limited nursing services to its residents, but not extended congregate care services.
Med Management—The employees of these facilities help the residents manage their medications via pharmacy packaging and/or distribution.
