Senior living has transformed significantly since the 1980s, offering vibrant lifestyles and personalized care options such as Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. Understanding the difference, and how they differ from nursing homes, empowers families to make well-informed decisions for their loved ones.
Only about 1% of the U.S. population is educated about senior living due to experiencing it firsthand as a family or through working in the industry. Outside of that 1%, when individuals hear the term "senior living," they may lump all the options into the same category based on their experience.
So, what sets Commonwealth Senior Living apart from these options?
Independent Living
Independent Living at Commonwealth Senior Living provides the perfect balance of freedom from homeownership and remaining connected and engaged. Our residents enjoy restaurant-style farm-to-table dining, weekly housekeeping, and a wide range of programs and activities, all designed to make your life easier and more fulfilling. With maintenance-free living and opportunities to connect with others, you'll have more time to focus on the things you love.
Assisted Living
Approximately 20% of adults over 85 years old require assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, or managing medications. Our Assisted Living residents enjoy peace of mind with a care team of compassionate and highly trained associates offering personalized support that upholds their dignity and respect. Residents not only receive assistance with their daily tasks but also benefit from engaging programs and activities, nutritious meals tailored to their dietary needs, and other support services should they need them. By providing a warm and welcoming environment, our Assisted Living neighborhoods empower seniors to maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle, while fostering overall well-being and happiness.
Memory Care
Memory Care offers round-the-clock support and engagement for residents living with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. These neighborhoods prioritize safety and security, providing a secure environment. Many communities will also offer family support to help your family navigate this transition. These communities are intentionally designed to offer the calm familiarity of routine schedules and consistent staffing with engaging programs and activities. Not all communities or their programs are the same, so doing online research and visiting the nearby communities in person is an important step in finding the right fit for you. Just like no two communities are the same, no two residents are at the same place in their journey. Their needs, abilities, and preferences are unique as well. Commonwealth Senior Living provides person-centered care to ensure each resident enjoys the most appropriate support possible.
Understanding the Difference Between Other Long-Term Care Options for Seniors
Skilled Nursing Facilities/Nursing Homes
Skilled Nursing Facilities are designed for seniors who are no longer able to care for themselves independently, are not mobile without assistance, require around-the-clock clinical care and medical monitoring due to chronic or deteriorating physical and health conditions, or require extensive rehabilitation following an injury or major surgery. In this clinical setting, residents receive assistance with all activities of daily living, but primarily need ongoing palliative care. While some recreational activities are available, the main emphasis is on providing skilled care, ensuring safety, and promoting comfort. Due to the highly skilled care and physician oversight required at Skilled Nursing Facilities, this is the most expensive level of residential care available for seniors.
55+ Communities
55+ Communities, simply put, are planned communities exclusively designed for people 55 years or older. These communities boast a prime location near hospitals, restaurants, and local attractions, ensuring convenience and accessibility for their residents. The age restriction also cultivates a sense of community and shared experience among peers. Insurance, utilities, maintenance, and amenities like exercise facilities and walking trails are included in a single fee. There are also different categories within 55+ communities, such as buying or renting a house or apartment within the community, with their prices fluctuating accordingly. To pay for these communities, Medicare and Medicaid are not accepted. Like Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care, 55+ communities are paid for with personal finances and benefits you qualify for, like Veterans Aid & Attendance.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC)
CCRCs offer independent living along with amenities, maintenance, and access to a higher level of care if your needs change. There are several living options available, including condos, cottages, duplexes, and studios. While you may receive some tax benefits, there are substantial entry and monthly fees. Additionally, the contracts associated with CCRCs can be complex and often require guidance from your financial advisor. Individuals must meet the requirements, both physically and cognitively, to live there and not own their home, but rather pay to live in the community while using the amenities and receiving care.
Today, seniors are presented with more options than ever before. Understanding the difference between each of these is the next step in deciding which option is right for you or your loved one. For more guidance and support in this process, click the button below to take a free, anonymous assessment that will recommend options that could help you in your current situation.
Our community leaders are just a phone call away. With their expertise and guidance, they can help you navigate the process with ease and ensure you make the best choice for your loved one's needs.
Contact the Community Nearest me
Skilled Nursing Facilities provide around-the-clock medical care for seniors who cannot live independently due to serious health conditions, mobility challenges, or the need for rehabilitation after surgery or illness. Unlike Assisted Living, which focuses on support with daily activities and maintaining an active lifestyle, Skilled Nursing Facilities prioritize clinical care, often with more intensive medical monitoring. Recreational activities may be offered, but the main focus is on skilled care and health management.
Independent Living at Commonwealth Senior Living is designed for seniors who want the freedom of homeownership without the responsibilities of maintenance. Residents enjoy a vibrant, active lifestyle with restaurant-style farm-to-table dining, weekly housekeeping, and a variety of programs and activities. Maintenance-free living allows residents to spend more time pursuing hobbies, socializing, and connecting with others, all in a supportive, engaging community.
Assisted Living at Commonwealth Senior Living provides personalized support for seniors who need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, or managing medications. Residents receive care from compassionate, trained associates who prioritize dignity and respect. In addition to daily assistance, residents enjoy nutritious meals, engaging programs and activities, and a warm, welcoming environment that promotes independence, social connection, and overall well-being.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) provide seniors with a full continuum of care in one community. Residents can enjoy independent living with access to amenities, maintenance-free housing, and social programs, while having the security of higher levels of care, such as Assisted Living or Memory Care, if their needs change. CCRCs offer a variety of living options, including condos, cottages, and studios, allowing seniors to maintain an active lifestyle with the peace of mind that care is available as their health needs evolve.