Everybody ages differently. While some individuals manage to do everything independently till well into their advanced age, others may need assistance much earlier.
If you are considering senior housing for yourself or a loved one, understanding the different senior housing options available in South Bay can help you make a more informed decision.
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities are designed for relatively independent seniors who require some amount of assistance in certain areas. Socializing with other residents in the same age group is a predominant feature of assisted living, with group dining areas and common areas for recreational and social activities.
Assisted living facilities have staff on hand 24/7 to offer residents whatever assistance they need in terms of bathing, housekeeping, medication management, meals, and transportation.
The cost of assisted living varies considerably depending on the location and type of living space as well as the level of assistance required.
Aging In Place
Aging in place involves seniors living by themselves in their own home or with family. This is often the preferred option for older adults who are fairly independent and do not need much assistance with their daily chores. This can mean different things to different seniors however. Some may still require minor assistance with things such as cleaning, cooking or grocery shopping.
Making a few modifications around the house such as installing bathroom grab bars or setting up a medical alert system can make aging in place safer and more convenient for seniors.
While this is among the cheaper options, it is only possible for seniors who have family and friends nearby who can help.
Independent Living
Independent living is a type of community that’s designed to accommodate seniors. Different independent communities are designed differently with varying combinations of apartments to freestanding homes.
Independent living is a great option for seniors who are relatively independent and look forward to socializing with others of the same age without having to worry about everyday chores such as cleaning, cooking and maintenance.
The cost of independent living communities is medium to high. This varies considerably depending on the location of the facility and the services they offer.
Residential Care Home
Residential care homes are designed for seniors who are not completely dependent on others but do require more personalized assistance than those who choose independent living.
These facilities tend to be smaller in size so that they can offer the type of personalized services that their residents require. This could be in the form of helping with everyday activities such as bathing, grooming and dressing or meal services.
Residential care homes cost more than independent living facilities but they cost far less than assisted living or skilled nursing facilities.
Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)
A continuing care retirement community combines features of several other types of senior housing. This option is designed for older adults who want to move to senior housing while they are still relatively independent and keep living in the same place even after their needs change and they need a higher level of care.
CCRCs make it possible for spouses who have different care needs to continue living together, which may not always be possible with other senior housing options.
Continuing care retirement communities are the most expensive of senior housing options because of their complex designing that takes into account different levels of care. In addition to paying an entrance fee, residents can expect to pay higher monthly fees when they need a higher level of care.
Nursing Home / Skilled Nursing Facility
Nursing homes are designed for older adults who are unable to care for themselves and require supervised care at all times with regards to daily activities, meals and health management. These facilities have one or more medical professionals on the premises at all times.
Nursing homes are the most expensive option of all with the exact cost depending on the level of care required.
