Basics of Property Management: Screening Potential Tenants

Differences Between Assisted And Independent Living

28 August 2015

Jesse Obrien

Are you an empty-nester who is currently thinking of downsizing to a smaller, more cozy home? Are you looking at your options and trying to figure out what best suits your preferences? Are you wondering about the differences between independent and assisted living? These questions and answers will give you the information you need to make the right choice for your lifestyle: 

Medical care:

Independent living is for seniors that require little day-to-day professional medical attention. A senior in an independent living community may be unable to handle some chores, such as pushing a heavy lawnmower or completely washing their windows. But they are still able to do most things without the help of other people.

Assisted living is for those that need constant medical attention or who have difficulties with basic hygiene tasks like bathing or dressing themselves. They may also be suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's and require nearly constant supervision so that they neither injure themselves nor wander off.

Daily activities:

Seniors in independent living often have access to large communal areas where they can socialize with other tenants. There may be pools, tennis courts and other similar activity areas. They are also able to come and go as they please, to do things like visit grandchildren or to go shopping.

Assisted living facilities also offer communal socialization areas, but these may be mostly indoor areas, depending on the facility. Having a more limited space for gathering allows for closer medical care and supervision. Field trips to nearby grocery stores or other locations may be provided by both types of facilities, depending on the needs and abilities of the residents. 

Financial arrangements: 

Because they do not offer around the clock medical care, many independent living communities are strictly private-pay. This means the senior or their family must pay the rent themselves, as with any standard rental property. These funds can come from sources such as pensions, Social Security, or Section 202 housing from from the Federal government.

In contrast, many health insurance policies will cover the expenses if a senior moves into an assisted living facility.  The medical care that is offered means that it is classified similarly to a hospital stay by the insurance company, rather than as simply housing. 

When choosing between independent living and assisted living, focus on your immediate needs. For example, your doctor may have told you that you're at risk for Alzheimer's or dementia because of a family history. However, you should not choose your move on what might happen a few years from now, since you may never develop either disease. If independent living sounds good to you right now, then that is where you belong.

For more information, contact a company like Brooke View.

Share