Is an Independent Living Facility Right for Me or My Aging Parent?

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Renting a private apartment in a retirement community

Services provided and how the services are provided can vary significantly between different Independent Living facilities. Typically, Independent Living arrangements provide assistance with home/apartment maintenance, meals and intermittent housekeeping services. It is important to ask specific questions about the extent and type of services provided, so you know what to expect and determine if this is the correct level of care.

Ideal Residents
  • Independent in Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): Able to safely bathe, dress, toilet and groom self
  • Able to take medications independently
  • Able to complete light housekeeping and laundry
  • Able to escape safely and independently during emergencies
  • Social and enjoys a sense of community
Residents that should consider a different level or type of care
  • Requires help or is unsafe with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), taking medications and light housekeeping
  • Requires access to a nurse or medical services (blood pressure checks, general inability to care for other minor aliments, risk of requiring assistance in medical emergencies)
  • Does NOT prefer a community living environment

*Note: Some residents can have additional hired caregivers to provide assistance with ADLs, set-up medications or provide additional housekeeping and laundry and remain in an Independent Living environment. However, this would not be recommended for those with complex medical needs or safety concerns.

Pros
  • Low maintenance
  • Housekeeping services: check how often they provide the service, it may not be often enough and may not be on-call
  • Dining room with meals provided
  • Better accessibility than most standard houses
  • Campus including outdoor spaces is more accessible (typically American with Disabilities Act compliant)
  • Additional emergency response systems, such as an emergency pull cord to alert staff and may have daily check ins
  • Sense of community
Cons
  • Expensive compared to other options and fees may go up yearly
  • Extra fees for extra services such as meal delivery or extra housekeeping
  • Limited to no assistance with activities of daily living (bathing, dress, etc.)
  • Limited or no nursing or medical services provided

Related Posts:

What is a Continuous Care Retirement Center (CCRC)?

Questions to ask a Continuous Care Retirement Center (CCRC)

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