As of July 2019, the United States was home to over 54 million people aged 65 and older.
If you have an aging loved one yourself, it’s normal to worry about their health, safety, and security.
After all, older adults are more prone to health conditions and injury-causing accidents.
For example, about 85% of them have at least one chronic disease, and 60% have at least two.
In that case, it’s best to learn more about independent living vs. assisted living options.
Don’t worry, as we’ll give you a brief background on how these two work and differ, so be sure to read on.
Independent Living vs. Assisted Living: A Quick Comparison
Independent living, as a philosophy, is a way of life in which a person has the ability to live on and think for their own.
People who live independently can do so because they are in overall good health.
By contrast, the term assisted living often refers specifically to a housing option.
These housing options are what you call assisted living communities (ALCs). ALCs provide housing for individuals who need medical and personal care aid.
A Closer Look at Independent Living Communities (ILCs)
ILCs are housing options for older people who wish to continue their independent way of life.
These are communities often designed exclusively for healthy adults aged 55 and above.
ILCs usually offer furnished housing options, such as single-family detached homes or apartments.
They also feature amenities like community centers, sports areas, pools, and fitness facilities.
Most of them also offer 24-hour security services.
Independent living communities may also offer services like housekeeping and yard care.
However, these are optional add-ons that residents pay for.
If your aging loved one is in otherwise good health, an ILC might be a good option for them.
This way, they can continue living independently while being in a secure environment.
How Assisted Living Works and Differs from Independent Living
According to the latest industry figures, there are about 28,900 ALCs in the US.
Together, they have close to one million registered beds, with an average of 33 beds per community.
ALCs cater to seniors who need help with their Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).
These include eating, hygiene, clothing, toileting, mobility, and continence.
ALCs also help monitor and administer their residents’ medication and even medical services.
Moreover, ALCs specialize in assisting individuals with some form of disability. Disabilities take many forms, such as impaired mobility, cognition, hearing, and vision.
Do note that more than a quarter of adults in the US have at least one type of disability. The rate is even higher for adults aged 65 or older, as about 40% have a disability.
What’s more, many people live with two or more types of disability.
That’s also why you’re likely to find more ALCs than ILCs if you do a quick online search for “senior living near me.”
In any case, if your loved one has a disability, an assisted living facility can be a much better option than an ILC.
Choose the Best Housing Option for Your Aging Loved One
There you have it, your basic guide comparing independent living vs. assisted living.
Now that you know, it’s time to talk to your aging family member about choosing between the two.
Start by explaining to them the difference between assisted living and independent living.
It’s imperative to get your loved one’s input, as they’ll be living in the community, after all.
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