Is a Senior Living Community the Right Choice for You?

The decision to move to a senior living community is a major life choice and can be difficult, especially if you’re relocating or selling a home. You may also be wondering if assisted living or independent living is the best option for you. To assist you with your decision-making process, here are some of the major differences between assisted living and independent living communities and what you should consider to determine the best option for your circumstances. We hope this guide will give you a helpful starting point in the next stage of your retirement journey.

How Are Independent Living and Assisted Living Defined?

Before deciding on the best senior living community for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to first understand what independent living and assisted living actually are. While there are many similarities between the two options, there are also some significant differences worth noting. Having a general understanding of the differences can help you ask better questions when touring communities, as well.

What is Independent Living?

Independent living allows seniors to live as they would on their own but amongst those in a similar stage of life with access to bespoke services and amenities. You’ll have opportunities to meet new people while still enjoying all of your favorite activities and hobbies. Even better, you’ll have access to all of the conveniences of community living, including access to weekly housekeeping services, on-site dining options and many other benefits you wouldn’t get from staying at home.

What is Assisted Living?

Assisted living supports your independence while assisting you as needed from time to time. Whether your needs include help with daily activities, medication management or other services, you and your loved ones can feel comfortable knowing you’ll be taken care of by professional caregivers. At Abbey Delray, our experienced team members can personalize your level of care to ensure you can live your life to the fullest while still receiving support when you need it.

How Do I Decide Between Independent Living and Assisted Living?

When looking for a good place to retire, you may have to compare independent living and assisted living community options directly. Here are three major areas where you’ll find the most notable differences between community options.

Care Provided in Independent Living Vs. Assisted Living Communities

The level of care provided in independent living communities will be similar to what is available for you at home, but with a greater emphasis on convenience. You’ll live much the same way you would at home, but with a rich community life you can’t find anywhere else. An assisted living community will be similar, but you’ll also have access to an on-site team that can meet you where your needs are when it comes to daily life. Care may include daily grooming assistance, physical therapy services and additional housekeeping responsibilities.

Services Available in Senior Living Communities

Independent living communities feature superb dining and wellness services that you’ll be able to enjoy throughout your retirement. From chef-prepared meals to fitness classes and more, you’ll be able to enjoy your time and shed many of the everyday responsibilities of day-to-day life. You’ll still have access to all of these community perks in an assisted living community, but you’ll also have access to additional care services, like a certified nursing assistant on-site 24 hours a day.

Cost Considerations When Choosing a Senior Living Community

Cost is a large factor for many when choosing a senior living community. Fortunately, Abbey Delray offers predictable costs whether you live independently or require additional assistance. Costs may change depending on your level of care or your financial circumstances. For these reasons, we recommend you contact us so we can speak to your individual needs.

Find the Right Senior Living Community for You at Abbey Delray

At Abbey Delray, we understand that you may have additional questions about life in a retirement community. That’s why we’re here to answer any questions you may have about services, amenities and other accommodation options in our neighborhoods. You can contact our team members through our website, and they’ll be happy to assist you. If you’d prefer to see our beautiful Delray Beach community for yourself, you can also request a tour to meet our residents, explore community life and view our new renovations. Once you’ve seen everything we have to offer, we’re confident that you’ll be able to see why so many seniors choose to make our community their home.