The Differences Between Independent Living and Assisted Living

Today’s seniors are living longer, healthier and more vibrant lives than ever before. In the past, it wasn’t uncommon for seniors to move from their family home into an assisted living community only when this assistance became necessary. Nowadays, more and more healthy and active retirees are opting for independent living communities where they can enjoy conveniences and amenities catered to their desired lifestyle and leave behind day-to-day responsibilities of traditional homeownership . So what’s the difference between independent and assisted living?

What Is Independent Living?

Seniors who are able to live entirely on their own can choose to live in a maintenance- free community that offers services such as laundry, housecleaning, lawn care and other normal household chores. It also places you near other like-minded seniors for easy socializing, organized events and ongoing group activities. More than simply a standardized calendar of daily activities, many of today’s senior living communities offer lifelong learning, groups and clubs that connect your lifestyle with your interests. They  strive to create an evolving array of special programming built upon direct and ongoing resident input. Independent living communities offer a life of greater convenience and freedom. This is considered a lifestyle choice, not a solution to a health care need.

What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living provides professional staff to administer health care and personal care to improve the quality of life for seniors who need those services. Help is always just moments away. The assistance provided usually includes food preparation, residence cleaning and laundry service, help taking medications, transportation to and from doctor visits, and help bathing and grooming if needed. These communities often have physical therapy, fitness programs and organized group activities. Most seniors and their families look for an assisted living environment that makes exploring new opportunities, discovering new interests and building new social connections an everyday occurrence. For some communities, memory care is also available in an assisted living setting.

Cost Differences

Independent living is typically more affordable than assisted living because there are no health care services provided. This means more of your income can be used for activities and entertainment. Assisted living, on the other hand, comes with the added value of having health care at your fingertips. The actual increase in cost depends of course on the level of care needed, and it’s important to realize that these needs may increase over time. Planning ahead is key when considering how to pay for independent or assisted living. Most seniors use the income gained from the sale of their home to make the move to independent living. The monthly costs incurred are usually covered by Social Security benefits, retirement accounts, pension payments, annuities and personal savings. Long-term insurance and veteran’s benefits might also be options to cover the additional costs of assisted living.

Which Solution Is Right for You?

If you’re a healthy retiree living an independent life and are able to rely on yourself for your active lifestyle, then an independent living community would free you from many of the hassles of homeownership. If you enjoy socializing with like-minded people your own age, an independent living community is designed for exactly that purpose.

One the other hand, if you’re becoming nervous that you live alone, are afraid you might fall or forget to take your medication, you may benefit from daily assistance. If you’re becoming increasingly reliant on family to help you, an assisted living community could be a wonderful improvement to your quality of life and peace of mind for you and all those who care about you.

Independent Living in Colorado Springs

With the amazing backdrop of a mountain range, a town filled with character, and lively arts and culture, more and more seniors are choosing to retire in Colorado Springs. Adventurous seniors enjoy the activities and attractions that fill this beautiful mountain town. Whether you want to hike a wooded trail, drive along breathtaking vistas, have a leisurely walk through an art gallery or museum, or just relax and take in the fresh mountain air, Colorado Springs is the place to do it all.

Assisted Living in Colorado Springs

For those seniors who want to enjoy all the beauty and culture of Colorado, with the added benefit of an independent and assisted living community, Colorado Springs is the perfect place to be. The many attractions and the nearby natural parks and mountain ranges have paved walking paths, guided vehicle tours and many destinations that are as easy to navigate as they are breathtaking to behold.

Aberdeen Ridge

Your retirement years are all about freedom, happiness and peace of mind. Aberdeen Ridge Senior Living Community will have the best of amenities, comfort and caregiving for seniors in Colorado Springs. Our brand-new community will offer a full spectrum of independent living and assisted living options, as well as memory care. And having this continuum of care available within the same community  will ensure that you can thrive here even as your needs change over time.

To learn more about the differences between independent living and assisted living, and about our coming independent living and assisted living options, contact us. You’ll soon discover why Aberdeen Ridge in Colorado Springs might just be the perfect place to call home.