Independent Living Vs Assisted Living: What You Need to Know
Choosing the proper living arrangements for an aging loved one is critical both to their longevity and quality of life. This decision impacts many facets of their lives in the months or years to come. The difference between independent living vs assisted living (what we call personal care at Menno Haven) is significant. Both options can be suitable for older adults but offer different levels of support to fit your needs.
When a family member needs more help and support than they can receive at home, it may be time to seek additional supportive services. Let’s examine the differences between these two levels of care.
What Is Independent Living?
At Menno Haven, one of the services we offer is independent living. It’s designed for individuals who can generally live independently but want to be part of a community that offers amenities, safety features, social opportunities, and a high quality of life.
Regarding independent living vs assisted living, the most significant differences lie in the services provided. Key features of independent living include:
- Autonomy: Residents maintain their independence and control over daily activities. You get to do and live your days as you would like to do so.
- Private Living Spaces: Residents have private apartments or homes where they have the freedom to cook, manage personal affairs, and entertain guests. It’s their private home, where they can feel at ease.
- Social Opportunities: You’ll have access to numerous community events, social clubs, fitness programs, and activities within the independent living community. That allows you to stay engaged as much as you would like to do so.
- Support Services: While independent living provides support through maintenance services, housekeeping, and access to healthcare if needed, residents do not typically require daily assistance with personal care tasks.
When you choose Menno Haven’s independent living options, you gain the ability to live as you would like to, with enhanced security, social activities, on-site amenities, and a vibrant lifestyle.
What Is Assisted Living (Personal Care)?
At Menno Haven, our assisted living services are called personal care, and with good reason. This service provides a higher level of care when you need more personalized support for daily activities. We will discuss your specific needs with you and tailor services to meet your best objectives.
Take a look at the features of personal care to see the differences between independent living vs assisted living. Key features of our personal care services include:
- Support with Daily Living Activities: Assisted living provides help with tasks such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and mobility, depending on your needs and desired range of care.
- Personalized Care Plans: Menno Haven tailors care plans to the individual’s needs, ensuring that each resident receives the appropriate level of assistance. We want you to be supported.
- Care Availability: Personal care services are available around the clock, providing peace of mind to you and your family.
- Meals and Dining: You’ll receive the help you need with preparing meals, including offering support, catering, and dietary considerations.
- Community and Socialization: Like independent living, personal care also provides a strong sense of community, with social activities and opportunities to interact with other residents, but with additional caregiving support.
When you choose Menno Haven’s personal care services, you will still enjoy a high-quality life that you can navigate confidently.
Independent Living vs Assisted Living: Which Is Right for Your Loved One?
There’s much to think about when making these decisions. Some considerations to think about when considering independent living vs assisted living include:
- What are your current health needs?
- Do you need independence or assistance when it comes to daily activities?
- What is your financial situation, and how does that influence your decision?
The best way to determine which type of care best suits your needs is to visit us. Take a tour and explore the differences in the levels of care we offer. That will give you better confidence in your decision.
Explore the Options Available to You Today
Independent living and personal care are two different services provided by highly trained professionals at Menno Haven. While independent living supports your household chores and needs, personal care further supports more necessary services to maintain your health.
We encourage you to explore your options by scheduling a tour and consultation with our team. Menno Haven provides compassionate, personalized care. Whether it’s independent living or personal care, we are committed to enhancing the lives of seniors in a safe, supportive, and loving environment.