Q: What is the difference between assisted living, independent living and active senior apartments?

Independent Living: Ironically independent living is for seniors who may need some level of assistance. Services like meals, laundry, linen delivery, maid service, on-site nurse, and planned activities are available as needed or wanted. If a resident needs special care, like an aide to help with daily life, they have to hire from an outside source on their own. Assisted Living: Assisted living may be the right choice for those who need a higher level of support. Assisted living facilities have on-site professionals to help with daily challenges and medical care. Those services are generally included in the overall cost of the facility. Active Adult Living: An active adult community is the gold standard for totally independent active adults seeking to maximize their empty nester chapter. With no hidden charges for services community members do not need, it's a choice that makes sense in terms of both lifestyle and finances.

Question 1

What is an active adult community?

Accepted Answer

Active Adult Communities are specifically designed for age qualified, active adults who want to embrace the stress free, turnkey,  empty nester lifestyle. Focused on creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere, active adult communities provide state-of-the-art amenities, classes and  activities that foster lasting social relationships with peers. You will find fitness, fun and friendship in resort style surroundings. You will not  find medical assistance, transportation, or meals but these things can be sourced at an additional fee. Community members want the best of empty  nester living, minus the charges for services they do not need.

Question 2

What are the pros and cons of living in a 55+ community?

Accepted Answer

The many pros of living in a 55+ community include:

Living spaces designed for aging in place with comfort and convenience.
A built-in network of like-minded, active adult peers with which to create meaningful social connections.
Peace of mind in a secure environment with other community members who support and watch out for each other.
Resort worthy amenities that may include state-of-the-art full-service fitness centers, Olympic sized pools, professionally outfitted kitchens for classes and demonstrations, theaters, game rooms and well-manicured outdoor spaces.
An unlimited list of opportunities for physical, intellectual, and social enrichment.
The best of stress free, turnkey living.

Question 3

What is Senior Living?

Accepted Answer

Senior Living is an umbrella term applied to the various different types of communities that cater to older adults.

Question 4

What is the difference between assisted living, independent living and active senior apartments?

Accepted Answer

Independent Living: Ironically independent living is for seniors who may need some level of assistance. Services like meals, laundry, linen delivery, maid service, on-site nurse, and planned activities are available as needed or wanted. If a resident needs special care, like an aide to help with daily life, they have to hire from an outside source on their own.

Assisted Living: Assisted living may be the right choice for those who need a higher level of support. Assisted living facilities have on-site professionals to help with daily challenges and medical care. Those services are generally included in the overall cost of the facility.

Active Adult Living: An active adult community is the gold standard for totally independent active adults seeking to maximize their empty nester chapter. With no hidden charges for services community members do not need, it's a choice that makes sense in terms of both lifestyle and finances.

Question 5

How do I find the right active adult community for me?

Accepted Answer

There are important issues to consider when looking for the right community:

Where do you want to live? Do you want to stay in your present location or try a new geographical area?
Does the community make sense for you financially?
Will your pet be welcome?
Does the community design and layout meet your expectations?
Does the roster of classes, activities and social opportunities accommodate your interests and lifestyle?
Now that you have taken a tour, does the community have the right vibe for you?

Question 6

My loved one is not able to live on their own. What is the best way to start a conversation with them about moving?

Accepted Answer

Open the communication lines early.
Be honest about your concerns.
Be sensitive.
Be proactive by doing your research first.
Be supportive.

Question 7

How to downsize for a senior living move?

Accepted Answer

Deal with the clutter a little bit at a time.
Set a timer to make sure you don't overdo it.
Create a yes, no and maybe pile to decide what is kept, donated or trashed.
Get help from family, friends or call in the professionals.

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