What Is The Difference Between Assisted Living and Other Forms of Care?

Assisted Living‍

Assisted Living helps your loved one continue to remain as independent as possible while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Often times when people think of senior living they think of Assisted Living as the main form of care. However, there are many branches of senior living that are easily misunderstood or looked past.

So, what makes Assisted Living different from other forms of care? Each branch of care depends on how much care a person will need. It ranges from Independent Living to Memory Care.  

‍Independent Living

‍First, Independent Living is structured so the resident can choose to pay for any extra services they desire.  Assisted Living includes the services, whereas, Independent Living is like having A La Carte services available.

Independent Living is designed to keep all services and activities close by, so the resident does not need to travel far in order to access what they need. There are recreational centers, libraries, bistros, and outdoor space available for the residents.

The resident can choose to get assistance with services such as dog-walking, laundry, and daily check-ins.  Once someone uses a certain amount of additional A La Carte services, it may become more economical to choose Assisted Living as their choice of residency.

‍Memory Care

‍Second, Memory Care is another type of care that involves more supportive cognitive services. This is specifically aimed towards those who have Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other cognitive impairments.

This type of living is placed in a separate memory care unit with 24-hour supervised care, along with an easy layout so the residents can navigate easily. It revolves around keeping the residents not only physically healthy but mentally healthy as well. There are activities planned by staff in order to accomplish this goal, while also entertaining the seniors.

Memory Care is a great option for your loved one if they need more supportive cognitive services, as it will help them feel safe, stress-free, and supported.

‍Supportive Living

‍Next, there is Supportive Living. This form of care is the most similar to Assisted Living.

The main difference between Assisted Living and Supportive Living is that Supportive Living is subsidized by the State and there is a financial safety net. In Illinois, services offered in Supportive Living can eventually be covered by Medicaid once assets have been spent down.

Assisted Living and Supportive Living involve similar places of residency and services offered.  This is a way for residents to be supported financially while still receiving the personal care services they need.

‍In-Home Care

‍Finally, there is In-Home Care, which is when a caregiver comes to your loved one’s home and helps them with the services they need.

The resident can choose how much care they need. It ranges from a few hours a day to 24/7 care. The caregiver can help with companionship, transportation, cleaning, and financial management, among other things.

In-Home Care is a way for the resident to be in the comfort of their home while being offered services to help support them with their needs.

‍Where Should I Place My Loved One?

‍Assisted Living seems to be the first thing that comes to mind when having a conversation about senior living. However, there are many different branches that are offered depending on the person’s level of care.

When looking at where to place your loved one, it is important to consider how much care they will need. This will determine whether they will be placed in Assisted Living or one of the other forms of care.  

No matter which form of care your loved one ends up being placed in, they will be supported and assisted, depending on how much care they need.

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