As we age, many of us need to think about our housing options. Some may choose to move to a smaller Florida condo, or to a smaller apartment near family. Others might need assistance with daily living or skilled nursing care. There are many options available for senior housing, no matter what their needs may be.
Cohousing
Senior cohousing is a popular option for seniors. Senior cohousing allows residents to share their living space and share common amenities, such as a kitchen and outdoor spaces. Although most senior cohousing communities can be intergenerational, they can also serve younger and older residents.
Some seniors find cohousing attractive, despite the fact that it can be difficult to find affordable housing. This housing model is similar to developmentally handicapped group homes. It can help reduce loneliness and costs for home health care.
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities are an excellent option for seniors who don't need nursing home-level care, but still want to maintain independence. These facilities offer daily housekeeping, meals, therapy, and medical care. You can also choose to live with your partner in these facilities. These facilities are government-subsidized and often have multiple levels of care.
The staff of assisted living communities is usually specialized in dementia care. The community provides a safe environment to residents and prevent them from wandering. Staff are trained to engage seniors with memory impairments. Nursing homes, on the other hand, house individuals with chronic medical conditions and provide 24 hour medical supervision. Although these facilities are among the least affordable options for seniors housing, they offer security and peace of mind. In an emergency, staff are always available to help residents.
Retirement communities
Many retirement communities offer housing options to the elderly. Most are located in warmer climates. It can be challenging to move long distances. It involves starting a new network of friends and can make it difficult to get medical treatment. When looking for a retirement community, it is helpful to consider the area, the availability of medical care, and the accessibility of common amenities and locations. You should also consider whether or not pets are allowed in the community.
Living in a large city offers many benefits, including the possibility of longer independence for the elderly. A high-rise apartment with an elevator can be more economical than a detached home. Also, concierge services are available from the doorman. City living provides many benefits, such as 24/7 delivery options, public transport, and the availability of medical specialists.
Boarding and care homes
Although they are similar to assisted-living communities, board or care homes don't provide the same level nursing care as nursing home care. While residents are provided with daily assistance, they do not receive 24-hour skilled nursing care. This type of housing is more prevalent in California and North Carolina that in other regions. But they all work on the same principle.
The smallest facilities can host between three and forty residents. They offer basic care services, such as meals and housekeeping. They may also be called personal care home.