Assisted living or independent living could be the right choice if your parents are struggling to shop and prepare healthy meals? Could they use help with a few daily tasks? Are they no longer driving and are dependent on others for rides?
It’s not uncommon to need a helping hand as we grow older. But your parents will still want to remain independent and in charge of their own lives.
The good news is that there are two types of communities that can support them to do just that – assisted and independent living.
If you’re wondering which lifestyle might be best for your parents, the following can help your family decide together.
Asking these questions can help define the areas where assistance is needed and which community might be the best fit.
Could they use help with dressing, bathing safely, housekeeping and managing basic tasks?
Is it a challenge to go to the store? Do they plan and prepare nutritious meals or rely more on processed foods and snacks?
Are they physically and logistically able to participate in the activities they enjoy?
Do they still get together with their friends? Or are they beginning to show signs of loneliness or isolation?
The ability to drive often impacts the ability to remain independent. Do they still drive or have access to alternatives?
Is their home well-kept or beginning to show signs of disrepair? Do they need help with the upkeep?
Does their home support efforts to age-in-place? Are there too many stairs or other accessibility issues?
Do you notice the mail piling up? Are they paying their bills on time and managing their finances and other personal business?
Has their neighborhood changed over the years? Do they still feel safe in their home and the area?
It’s not uncommon to begin to feel anxiety about living alone or what might happen if an injury or illness occurred. Your parents may be worried but not sharing their concerns.
Once your family has a better understanding of the type of support your parents might need, consider the services they’ll find at assisted or independent living and determine which type of community might be best.
You’ll discover there are many similarities and advantages between the two:
Assisted living or independent living? Your parents will maintain their independence and still make all of their decisions in both types of communities – and enjoy living in their own private home.
Assisted living or independent living? Only assisted living offers these services. For example, if your parents need help with bathing, dressing or medication management, assisted living is the right choice.
Assisted living or independent living? Both community types offer a monthly schedule of programs and social events for the residents to participate in.
Assisted living or independent living? There are many opportunities to meet and make new friends, which is a great benefit of both communities. At social events, programs or even crossing paths in the common areas, it’s never been easier to begin a friendship.
Assisted living or independent living? As part of the services offered, assisted living provides healthy and delicious meals for their residents. But those who live in independent living may also have access to on-site dining.
Assisted living or independent living? Both community types typically offer scheduled transportation to medical appointments, shopping, entertainment or other outings.
Assisted living or independent living? Your parents can enjoy the freedom of a maintenance-free life whether they choose assisted or independent living. Most residents enjoy letting go of these responsibilities.
Assisted living or independent living? Daily life is much easier whether your parents live in assisted or independent living, including having everything on-site and no longer having to worry about paying monthly household bills.
Assisted living or independent living? Both types of communities offer security measures that can range from personnel to alarm systems for the community and personal residences.
Assisted living or independent living? Assisted living offers your parents the reassurance of knowing that someone is there 24/7 should they ever need help. Although independent living doesn’t offer this service, your parents may feel more secure knowing there are others nearby.
If your family is considering whether independent or assisted living might be the best solution for your parents, we hope you will visit one of our Ingleside communities. We believe you’ll find we support all of our residents to live their best lives and encourage them to take advantage of all the benefits we offer, including:
For information on Ingleside’s Westminster at Lake Ridge senior living community located in Lake Ridge, Virginia, please call (703) 420-7105 with questions or to schedule a personalized tour today.
For information on Ingleside at King Farm senior living community located in Rockville, Maryland, please call (240) 414-8557 with questions or to schedule a personalized tour today.
For information on Ingleside at Rock Creek senior living community located in Washington, DC, please call (202) 846-2651with questions or to schedule a personalized tour today.