Selecting the Right Type of Community

Selecting the right type of community and level of care can seem like an overwhelming task. There are many factors to consider. Retirees have varying desires, abilities and needs. Luckily, the retirement housing industry understands these varying needs and offers different types of communities to serve those needs.

Retirement Communities

Retirement or "Active Retirement" communities promote a rich life experience based on active recreation and social interaction with other seniors. Retirement communities tend to offer personal living space such as apartments with low maintenance or maintenance-free lifestyle. Retirement communities promote an independent lifestyle.

Assisted Living Communities

Assisted Living is an option for seniors who may need assistance, but are not in need of a nursing home. Assisted Living communities offer independent living areas and may include services such as assistance with bathing, dressing, medication and laundry.

Memory Care Communities

Memory Care communities specialize in caring for people with Alzheimer's disease and other dementia-related impairments. Typically, memory care communities provide specific care by specially-trained staff who have the knowledge and experience to care for residents with Alzheimer's. Features of memory care communities include a safe and secure environment, activities that nurture a familiar environment and make the most out of life.

Respite Care Communities

"Respite" refers to short term, temporary care provided to people with disabilities in order that their families can take a break from the daily routine of care giving. Unlike child care, respite services may sometimes involve overnight care for an extended period of time. One of the important purposes of respite is to give family members time and temporarily relieve the stress they may experience while providing extra care for a family member.