When Should One Move From Independent to Assisted Living?

You should move from independent to assisted living when you need help with activities of daily living (ADLs). While it may be difficult to make the transition at first, assisted living communities offer 24-hour support, engaging activities and a variety of amenities to enjoy. If you’re not sure when or why to make the switch, discover the differences between these two community types so you can decide for yourself.

Independent living communities are designed for seniors who are self-sufficient and don’t require much help with the activities of daily living. Assisted living communities, however, are purposefully designed for older adults who need some extra support.

In assisted living communities, seniors have access to a 24-hour team of experienced caregivers who help with routine tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming and using the toilet when needed. Likewise, many assisted living facilities may also provide medical support, access to licensed nurses, visiting physicians and medication management.

If you or your loved one require more daily assistance than an independent living facility can offer, it may be time to make the transition to assisted living.

Independent living communities are basically age-restricted apartment complexes, so many of them are expansive and luxurious in scope. Navigating your way around a multi-building complex without support may be difficult for some seniors, as there’s often a notable distance to travel to access different areas or activities.

Assisted living, on the other hand, is often smaller and significantly easier to navigate. You’ll still have the benefit of luxurious amenities, but you won’t have to walk across campus to enjoy them. Since assisted living offers smaller, more self-contained units, everything you need is readily available in one place.

Independent living communities often feature a full suite of resort-style amenities, but you’ll find similar offerings in assisted living as well. At a minimum, these include housekeeping, transportation and restaurant-style dining. While independent living may feature luxurious extras such as state-of-the-art fitness centers, swimming pools and personal trainers, assisted living offers more easily accessible options, along with cozy common areas, libraries and cafes directly in the community.

Meals are usually included and served in a community dining room to encourage resident connections. In other words, you can still have a full, active life in assisted living, and you’ll also enjoy a full schedule of engaging daily activities. Programming in assisted living is often offered for more hours per day, and it’s generally conducted in small groups so you can receive one-on-one attention.