The Various Types of Senior Living Options, Explained

Due to the technological advances in the healthcare industry, life expectancy has gone up at a drastic pace—seniors over the age of 85 account for 2% of the nation’s population. In Michigan, the senior adult population was recorded at 2.6 million back in 2010. That’s roughly 26% of the population in the state.

Given the range of Senior Living options, choosing the best type of living for seniors can seem overwhelming. There are plenty of options to choose from, and they all offer similar care. If you want to know the various types of senior living, then you’ve come to the right place.

We prepared a practical guide that will answer all your queries. Here is a quick overview of some of the senior living options people can opt for.

Independent Senior Living

Older adults interested in independent living get access to housing arrangements. All of which are tailored towards their personal needs. They can select distinct types of independent living. These include Aging in place or 55+ retirement communities. Here is how both of these options look like.

Aging in Place

When the patient has decided to live their life in their current residence, instead of going to a retirement facility, that’s when they use Aging in place. But, this type of senior living is only meant for individuals who can do most of their tasks on their own.

55+ Retirement Community

This age-restricted community provides residence for seniors over a specific age. In this case, older than 55. The options will vary from community to community. But, in general, seniors can choose to stay in a single-family residence, apartment, townhouse, or condo.

Each community has its own spark and appeal to it. It is best for people who need extra help. Yet, they also want to spend some time with like-minded individuals their age. It’s about socializing, engaging with peers, and getting professional assistance.

Assisted Senior Living

A community that offers assisted living is a great choice for patients who need medical help to do their day-to-day routines. Residents still keep their independence and enjoy adequate medical assistance. With assisted living, patients get help with:

  • Physical and recreational activities
  • Laundry and housekeeping
  • Nutrition and medication

The cost for treatment depends on the amenities, location, rooms selected, and amount of care necessary.

Respite Care

Respite care is another form of assisted living. But, it is catered towards seniors in need of short-term care. This is a go-to choice for seniors who recently had surgery or debilitating sickness. Families choose respite care to get a break from the demands of caring for an illness.

Memory Care Community

Memory care is typically a component of an assisted living community or a nursing home. Here, patients with dementia can obtain the care they need. Alzheimer’s is a typical form of dementia, often contributing to 60% to 70% of cases.

Memory care features a bigger staff count with rigorous supervision and security. All to make sure that patients don’t leave the establishment. Instead, they are safe with medical experts taking care of their every need.

Avatar photo

Manda Ayoub

Manda is a nurse and a licensed nursing home Administrator in the state of Michigan. She has worked through all aspects of the post-acute healthcare industry, holding various positions including Infection Control Nurse, In-service Director, Quality Assurance Director, Risk Manager and a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator.