Independent living consists of housing designed for seniors 55 and older. These communities are commonly apartments, but some also offer cottages, condominiums, and single-family homes. Residents of these homes include seniors who do not require assistance with daily activities or 24/7 skilled nursing. However, they may benefit from convenient services, senior-friendly surroundings, and increased social opportunities that independent senior living communities offer.
Assisted living communities are often a housing facility for people who cannot or choose not to live independently due to a health condition or disability and need some assistance for their activities of daily living. This could be dressing and bathing assistance or medication oversight and maintenance.
The demand for memory care has continued to rise and is projected to rise even more by the year 2040. Memory care is a form of senior living that provides specialized assistance with care for those who have been diagnosed with dementia. It is very important to find the right facility for someone, especially when it comes to memory care and what services are offered.
Skilled nursing care is what has been referred to for years as a nursing home. Skilled nursing care provides nursing care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. These are licensed healthcare facilities that are inspected by the state's Department of Health and Human Services. Most of these facilities will provide services such as laundry and transportation; physical, occupational and speech therapies; or even hospice care.
Sometimes people need assistance, but they are still able to remain in their home. In home-health care companies can come into your home and provide non-medical assistance such as preparing nutritious meals, assistance with bathing, transportation, laundry, and light housekeeping. Other home health companies can come in and provide assistance with occupational, speech, and physical therapies.
Hospice promotes the principles of palliative care and puts a focus on quality of life by ensuring the end of life is as comfortable as possible by easing any pain, discomfort, or distress. Making this decision can be a difficult one and often, people make this decision too late. A hospice team consists of experienced and certified physicians, nurses, social workers, and home health aides.