A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding the Different Levels of Senior Living Communities

As you enter the retirement years of life and are ready to let go of the responsibilities of a house and yard, there are many options to consider when looking at senior living communities. Depending on your needs, you can move into an independent living situation, assisted living, memory care, full-time nursing care, or respite. Here is an overview of each type of living situation for you to consider.

Levels of Care Provided by CRISTA Senior Living

CRISTA Senior Living provides three levels of community for seniors — independent living, assisted living, and memory care.

Independent Living: Independent living communities are ideal for seniors who want to maintain an active lifestyle without being responsible for the day-to-day tasks that come with homeownership. These communities provide comfortable apartments or homes that are often equipped with modern amenities like kitchenettes or full kitchens, individual climate control, and in-unit laundry systems. There are usually amenities available such as dining, fitness centers, transportation services, social activities, and more. **

Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities are designed to help seniors who need daily assistance with activities, such as bathing, dressing, and taking medications. These facilities provide 24-hour supervision and monitoring for the safety of their residents. Activities and amenities vary from facility to facility but typically include meals, housekeeping services, social and recreational opportunities, transportation services, medication management, and personal care assistance.

Memory Care: Memory care facilities specialize in providing specialized care for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. These communities provide enhanced security measures to ensure the safety of their residents. They also offer structured daily activities designed to engage the mind and remind residents of life skills. In addition, memory care units typically include staff members who are specially trained in caring for those with memory impairment issues.

Additional Levels of Care

Nursing Home: Nursing homes are staffed by licensed medical professionals that provide 24-hour skilled nursing care to individuals who need assistance with daily living activities such as personal care, medication administration, mobility assistance, and more. Nursing homes are designed to provide the highest level of medical care available in a residential setting.

Respite Care: Respite care is short-term, temporary care that can be provided either in a nursing home or assisted living facility. It is typically used when a primary caregiver needs time away from their responsibilities due to vacation, illness, or other circumstances. Respite care provides peace of mind knowing that your loved one will receive quality care while you’re away.

Life Plan Communities: Life Plan Communities offer seniors an all-inclusive living experience with onsite amenities such as independent and assisted living units, memory care units, and skilled nursing care. CRISTA Senior Living is a Life Plan community. Residents of these communities enjoy their independence, and still have access to the care they need as their health needs change over time.

No matter what type of senior living option you choose for yourself or your loved one, it’s important to do your research and find a facility that best meets your individual needs. Be sure to visit facilities in person and speak with staff members to get an accurate picture of the services and amenities provided. When selecting a senior living option, consider the quality of care, safety features, cost, convenience, and lifestyle options available at each facility. With the right information and understanding of the different levels of senior living options, you can make an informed decision about where to call home for years to come.

CRISTA Senior Living in Shoreline, WA and Silverdale, WA would love to help you determine which level of support you or your loved one needs at this stage of life. For more information or to schedule a tour at CRISTA Senior Living, visit cristaseniorliving.org or call 206.452.4074.