Understanding Independent Living vs. Assisted Living

Contents:

• Understanding Independent Living
• Understanding Assisted Living
• What Is the Difference Between Independent Living and Assisted Living?
• Which Is Right for You or Your Loved One?

As we grow older, our lives change, and the daily errands and chores we used to enjoy may become too much. Or we’re constantly thinking about our finances and realize that the way we used to live isn’t affordable anymore. 

You or your loved one may find yourselves in a situation where it’s time to think about living in a supportive, caring community. Exploring new options and finding the perfect new senior home can be a wonderful experience. Understand the difference between independent and assisted living and make the right decision for you or a loved one. 

Understanding Independent Living

Independent living means maintaining your independence while thriving in a social living environment. Many older adults can still go about their day-to-day lives and interact with family members and friends, yet choose to stay in a community that fosters social and spiritual growth. 

If keeping your family home has become too expensive or living alone is not an option, the best alternative would be to choose independent living because you or your loved one won’t need to forgo any autonomy. There are multiple factors that seniors can look forward to when they decide to live independently, such as: 

• More social interaction: Independent living facilities offer vibrant living conditions where people can socialize, engage in various hobbies and enjoy spiritual and emotional growth and support.
• Fitness and physical movement: Often boasting great lawns and spacious grounds, an independent living facility allows older adults to move freely and walk in a safe and secure environment. This type of freedom isn’t always possible when living alone.
• Intellectual stimuli: We all fall into the trap of being stuck in front of the television for hours. Older adults may find this happening one too many times if they’re living alone. Attending planned trips and events with their independent living community is a wonderful way to get outside and see new things. It’s also good for the mood and overall well-being.
• Fewer chores and errands: When living in a caring but vibrant community, older adults won’t need to worry about tasks like yard work, cooking or taking out the trash. The facility does this for residents, freeing you or your loved ones to enjoy life. 

Independent living is a great option for older adults who are still able to live their lives without needing special care. This lifestyle fosters and encourages growth and helps you or your loved one thrive.

Understanding Assisted Living

Older adults who choose assisted living need additional help in their day-to-day lives. Usually, these are people who need assistance with medication and other daily activities such as using the bathroom, washing and eating. Though some form of independence is often encouraged in assisted living conditions, these facilities provide the necessary support to ensure the safety and comfort of older adults. 

People might choose assisted living for a variety of reasons, including:

• Frequent forgetfulness, such as misplacing items or forgetting to take medication
• Increased risk of falls, particularly on stairs or in the bathroom 
• Difficulty getting around and trouble standing
• Forgetting to turn off appliances or frequent accidents in the home

Other signs that an older adult might benefit from assistance are frequent trips to the hospital due to injuries sustained at home from falls and accidents.

Sometimes, the need for independent living or assisted living may need clarification. Other times, you or your loved one will know that having assistance in daily life is the best option. Which begs the question, what is the core difference between the two?

What Is the Difference Between Independent Living and Assisted Living?

There are distinct differences between maintaining independence and having additional support. Here are guidelines that we can explore, which will aid in identifying the main differences:

1. Physical and social interactions: For assisted living, this would include activities for seniors who cannot walk or stand, such as board games or light yoga. The activities for older adults who live independently might focus on physical fitness, movement and agility. Both types of facilities offer social opportunities like clubs and outings.
2. A balance in the care provided: Seniors who need assistance will get extra care in their daily activities like grooming and feeding. Older adults in independent conditions may not need such care, but the facility still provides extra security.
3. The social construction of the community: Often, older adults in assisted living situations enjoy more enclosed surroundings for safety reasons. In a relaxed environment with staff ready to help, assisted care is well-structured with compassion in mind. Seniors in independent living communities have more open spaces and outdoor activities. The emphasis here is on social interaction with fellow residents and access to nature. 
4. Activity calendar: Activities and excursions will differ between independent living and assisted living facilities. Assisted living and care are often based on physical therapy and cognitive stimuli. Of course, residents also enjoy more relaxed, stimulating activities such as board games and being outdoors. The more lively calendar of independent living means residents have more social movements and the program focuses on hobbies, exercise and interests. 
5. Family support: In both independent and assisted living situations, family involvement is paramount. Both allow family visitation and often incorporate family members into community activities, especially around the holidays. For assisted living facilities, family members will be kept apprised of important notes about their loved one’s health and well-being. 

Which Is Right for You or Your Loved One?

Making the right decision between independent living or assisted living can be simple. It comes down to how much support you or your loved one needs. 

For older adults who need assistance and guidance in their daily activities and who generally cannot plan or time their medication on their own, assisted living would be the best option for their safety and comfort. 

Seniors who want an independent lifestyle and wish to partake in moderately active physical activities and hobbies will thrive in an independent living situation. Here, autonomy and a sense of self are encouraged and valued. This arrangement will be ideal if older adults wish to keep their previous independent lifestyles and add new friendships and values. 

Elm Terrace — The Best in Retirement Living

Maintaining a fun and vibrant lifestyle through retirement is entirely possible and encouraged. We at Elm Terrace know the importance of fostering friendships and a healthy lifestyle while still enjoying the peace that comes with retirement. 

Whether you or your loved one seek to enjoy independent living at a facility with a soft heart for the community or need assisted living with dignity and luxury, Elm Terrace has a place for you. Feel free to contact us and explore our independent living and assisted living options, or schedule a free lunch and tour to visit our senior living community!