Aging is inevitable. It happens to everyone. It doesn’t matter how old you are. Aging is something we must accept and embrace. However, aging is also a terrifying process. As we age, our bodies begin to change. We have to depend on others. That is where the assisted living may become an option. I’ll help you to choose between assisted and independent living.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is a type of housing for seniors. It provides help with activities of daily living. The assistance can come from a professional caregiver, a friend or family member, or one of the many types of support services available through assisted living.
Assisted living facilities provide seniors with –
- a comfortable place to live,
- help from staff members with daily tasks,
- help 24/7 to assist residents with bathing, dressing, eating, medication management, and housekeeping.
Assisted living facilities can be found in various types of settings, including independent living communities, retirement communities, nursing homes, and long-term care centers.
What Is Independent Living?
People who do not live in a household are considered independent living. Financial stability, safety, or health concerns may motivate some people to live independently. Some people choose this lifestyle if they have no personal relationships.
A retirement community is a type of living that allows you to live independently. You will still have access to all the assistance and support of a typical retirement community.
The benefits of retirement community living include:
- increased independence,
- *increased flexibility,
- reduced stress, and
- more time for leisure activities.
If you are considering a retirement community, visit one today!
Independent Living Vs. Assisted Living
There are pros and cons to both options. Here is some information to make the choice easy for you –
- Both require monthly fees.
- Both have staff members that live in the community.
- Independent living does not require medical care. Assisted living requires residents to receive medical treatment from the facility.
- Independent living is cheaper than assisted living.
- Independent living also has fewer restrictions. It allows residents to drive cars and even own pets.
- Assisted living offers more amenities and benefits
- Assisted living provides 24-hour nursing care. This includes medication management, personal hygiene assistance, and meal preparation.
- Assisted living facilities often have larger apartments and private bathrooms.
- Independent living is generally located in rural areas. Assisted living is typically located near major cities. If you prefer to stay close to family and friends, then independent living might be right for you.
- Assisted living would probably be a better option if you prefer to stay in an urban area.
Independent Living Vs. Assisted Living: Statistics
Living independently is something that everyone wants to achieve. Health issues, aging, and other reasons occasionally make living alone impossible. Assisted living facilities can be an ideal solution in these cases.
Aging is inevitable. But we can still live independently. Independent living is becoming increasingly popular among older adults. This is especially true for women over 65 years old. According to the U.S Census Bureau, the number of Americans aged 65 and older has increased by almost 50% since 2000.
By 2030, the number of Americans over 65 will increase by another 33%. So why are so many seniors choosing to stay in their homes instead of moving into assisted living facilities? Let us find out.
Arguments For Independent Living
1. They Want To Maintain Their Independence
To maintain their independence, older adults can stay at home. It is common for elderly people to feel that living in an assisted living facility will limit their independence. For example, the residents of assisted living facilities often require assistance with getting dressed, bathing, eating, using the bathroom, and walking. Some elderly individuals don’t need this.
2. They Don’t Like Being Touched Or Having Their Backs Rubbed
It is common for elderly people to dislike being touched or having their backs rubbed. Someone touching their shoulders, arms, legs, or feet might make them uncomfortable. Patting their heads or hugging them might also make them feel uneasy.
3. They Are Not Interested In Socializing With Other Residents
Some elderly people stay at home rather than move into assisted living facilities. They don’t want to socialize with other residents. They might feel embarrassed about showing their emotions or expressing themselves freely. Others might feel too tired or stressed to participate in group activities.
Conclusion
The majority of people would say that independent living is the best way to live. Since you do not rely on others for help, you can live as you please. Additionally, it can be more affordable than assisted living. You must decide what’s right for you based on the pros and cons of each type of living.
