When your loved one needs senior living, there are options. Independent living and assisted living are two of the most common types of senior living options in retirement communities today. Both offer unique services and amenities and are complementary in a community that provides a continuum of care. The differences between independent living vs. assisted living primarily regard the services and amenities that help with daily life.
You want the best quality of life for your loved one in retirement, so picking a compassionate community where they can live with dignity should be top of mind. The team at Westminster Place in Longview, Texas, can help with defining what your loved one’s retirement needs are. Call 903.329.6520 now to learn more about our options for independent and assisted living in Texas.
Independent Living Services
This option is the most like living on your own but with added benefits and amenities.
Independent living may be the right choice if:
- Your loved one is in good overall health and can manage daily activities on their own
- Your loved one no longer wants to maintain a home of their own
- Your loved one wants to live among seniors going through the same stage of life that they are
- Your loved one likes to participate in social activities with other seniors
- Your loved one can drive but would prefer not to have to
If your independent living would be a good fit for your loved one, they’ll enjoy a range of services and amenities to put comfort and convenience first.
Maintenance-Free Living
No more worrying about shoveling snow, raking leaves, mowing the lawn, or fixing a leaky faucet. All the small jobs and repairs you had to attend to as a homeowner are a thing of the past for residents of senior living communities. Residents enjoy this newfound freedom and convenience so that they can spend time enjoying their retirement.
Safety and Security
Many seniors take comfort in a larger community of peers—in a secure community—rather than being on their own. Residents and their families can have peace of mind knowing that they are safe and well-cared for 24/7 by a team of dedicated staff.
Luxury Amenities
Having everything you need all in one place has its benefits. Seniors appreciate the ease of stepping out their door and having services at their disposal, activities to participate in, or outings to go on when and if they choose to.
When considering the choice between independent living vs. assisted living, take serious consideration of your loved one’s medical needs, too. If they’re living through the early stages of a cognitive condition like dementia, they may be better suited to assisted living.
Assisted Living Services
When a senior is no longer able to live independently, then assisted living is the next step. It offers the same maintenance-free lifestyle of independent living but with additional healthcare amenities and assistance with daily tasks that may be needed. Plus, in many senior living communities, residents can transition from independent to assisted living within the same community.
An assisted living community may be ideal for your loved one if:
- They live an independent lifestyle but do not want the responsibility that comes with maintaining their own home.
- They need a little assistance around the house with daily tasks or medication management and do not have the support to help them at home.
- They would like to live among other seniors going through similar experiences.
- They are no longer able to drive or are not comfortable driving.
Choosing between assisted living versus independent living, don’t forget that assisted living doesn’t mean your loved one will be stripped of their dignity and all their independence. Rather, they can receive the help they need to become empowered in other areas of their life while enjoying a range of benefits.
Community
A way to live out retirement among peers with similar interests and in the same stage of life.
Social Interaction
Community activities focus on everything from fitness to arts and crafts, from book clubs to Broadway shows.
Transportation Services
Local shuttles take residents to events in the area or run errands—no need to keep the cost and maintenance of your own vehicle.
Added Care Services
A dedicated staff will help with daily tasks and medication management if needed. Care can be adjusted as the need arises.
Your loved one’s well-being should be your top priority when determining the best fit between independent living vs. assisted living.
When to Consider Assisted Living Versus Independent Living
It’s essential to keep track of your loved one’s changing needs and reassess their living situation regularly. If they are struggling with maintaining independence in daily tasks or need additional medical care, it may be time to consider assisted living. The decision should be made based on their individual needs and preferences, as well as the resources available in your area.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to find a senior living community that offers the right balance of services, amenities, and care for your loved one’s needs. At Westminster Place in Longview, Texas, we offer both independent and assisted living options to cater to a range of needs. Plus, our continuing care retirement community can offer services that change with their needs. Rather than having to uproot, your loved one can stay in a familiar and supportive community as they age.
Westminster Place Is a Great Place to Retire
Westminster Place offers multiple senior living options, all within the same community in Longview, Texas, from respite care, assisted living, and independent living to memory care and skilled nursing.
No matter the senior living option you choose for your loved one, the residents at Westminster Place can all take advantage of the benefits of maintenance-free living, including:
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Maintenance services
- Premium culinary experiences
- Transportation services
- Health and wellness services
- Regular outings and recreational activities
When you’re ready to find a place for your loved one to retire, we’re standing by ready to help.
Call Westminster Place in Longview, TX, to Get Started
Let the team at Westminster Place help you find the perfect fit for your loved one. Our compassionate and knowledgeable staff is dedicated to providing excellent care tailored to each resident’s individual needs and preferences. Contact us online or by calling 903.329.6520 now to get started.