Different Types Of Assisted Living Communities

As you age and you have different needs, it can make sense to move into an assisted living community to have those needs met. It is important to keep in mind that there are a variety of different types of retirement communities that you can move into.

#1 Over-55 Housing

There are over-55 housing facilities. Many of these housing facilities are designed to cater to those who are over 55. You can either rent or purchase a home in a community where everyone living there is entering the end of their work life and is past the point where they are raising children.

In over-55 communities, children are generally not allowed other than as guests, so these are not the types of communities to move into if you are an older parent or a grandparent who is taking care of your children.

These types of communities may take care of some services, such as yard work, but are largely in place to allow you to live around others who are in a similar stage of life.

#2 Independent Living

Independent living communities are for individuals who want to live in a smaller home and not have all the worries of home ownership but who are still able to largely take care of themselves. In an independent living community, you don't have to worry about maintenance inside and outside of your home. You can also pay for services such as housekeeping as well. These types of communities help you with the logistics of taking care of a home while allowing you to maintain your own schedule and cook your own food.

There are often some types of community events organized within independent living communities as well.

#3 Assisted Living Communities

Assisted living communities are designed for individuals who need help with everyday tasks. In these types of communities, each member has their own Individualized Service Plan (ISP) that details the care they need. The service plan could be as simple as help preparing meals or as in-depth as help with dressing, bathing, medication, and physical therapy.

#4 Memory Care Facilities

Memory care facilities are those that are designed specifically to care for individuals who are suffering from dementia, Alzheimer's, and other cognitive conditions. These type of places provide for all the needs of their residents and also help keep the residents safe from harm.

The type of facility you need to move into as you age depends on your needs. You may move into different types of care facilities as your needs change or move into a community that will meet your changing needs as you age.