The term “nursing home” continues to be used as a blanket term for senior living communities. However, today’s modern senior living options offer so much more than this outdated term implies. Community life isn’t just for those who need a helping hand; it’s a great place to meet others, indulge your passions, and get seamless access to resort-style amenities and services you can’t get anywhere else.
Let’s clarify some of these common terms, and address any misconceptions. There’s far more to senior living options that you know!
Senior Living is not Assisted Living, but May Include Access to Supportive Care
Most senior living communities offer independent living options for vibrant, active adults, as well as supported living options like assisted living or skilled nursing care.
Assisted living is a type of senior care that’s designed to help older adults who need a little more assistance throughout daily life. Those who live in assisted living don’t require the high level of care that a skilled nursing community provides, but benefit from assistance with regular tasks such as:
- Routine personal hygiene
- Dressing
- Managing medications
- Transportation to doctor’s appointments and grocery stores
- Housekeeping
- Cooking
By getting the care needed to promote their independence, older adults who live in an assisted living community are encouraged and supported to live as independently as they can. assisted living communities offer private apartments, allowing residents to have their own space.
What Are the Benefits of Assisted Living?
Assisted living provides services and security that create a safe, long-term living environment for seniors who need more support in their daily lives. Assisted living communities typically have a team available around the clock to give residents the assistance they need, when they need it. This level of care empowers seniors to stay healthy while maintaining their independence and building relationships, which can contribute to an improved quality of life.
In addition to supportive services, assisted living residents enjoy the many benefits that come with living in a senior community, such as engaging activities , entertaining events and opportunities to connect with fellow residents. Some assisted living communities also provide memory care, which has additional services tailored to the needs of people with dementia.
Senior Living Communities May Also Offer Skilled Nursing Care
Both skilled nursing and assisted living care options offer help with daily tasks, such as medication management and housekeeping. The difference between assisted living and skilled nursing is the specific daily level of care that residents receive.
Skilled nursing can be short- or long-term, and is ideal for those who need a significant level of medical care to manage their health, such as on-site dialysis treatments or physical therapy, for example. Skilled nursing is an ideal fit for those who have chronic health conditions, limited mobility or are recovering from injuries or surgery.
What Are the Benefits of Skilled Nursing Care?
Lack of time, knowledge or energy can make staying on top of your health difficult – especially if you have complex health conditions. Many health issues, if left unchecked, can be life-threatening, while others can severely diminish your quality of life. This is where skilled nursing can help.
Residents in skilled nursing communities require a higher level of care. Those who live in a skilled nursing community will benefit from the 24/7 support of licensed medical professionals who can assist with their medical needs.
In addition to providing necessary health care, skilled nursing communities provide amenities, services and events that help older adults find a sense of community, build connections and pursue their goals.
Find Your Community at Oak Trace
No matter your needs or desires in retirement, the community at Oak Trace can help make them a reality. Thanks to a wide range of lifestyle options and a dedicated team of professionals, we’re committed to helping every resident thrive. Join our community now to take part in all the activities, events, and amenities we have to offer, and get the peace of mind of knowing that help is just a few steps away if you ever need it. Contact us to explore your living options at Oak Trace today.
