What differentiates assisted living from independent living? How can you tell which style of senior living is right for you? There are common misconceptions about both types of senior living that can make it difficult for older adults and their loved ones to know which community is best suited to their needs.
For seniors in Austin searching for retirement living options, exploring the commonalities and differences between independent and assisted living can help you make informed decisions about the future.
What is Assisted Living in Austin?
Assisted living is a level of care aimed at older adults who can no longer perform the daily activities of living without a helping hand or require regular medical assistance. Residents of assisted living communities are supported by a compassionate team of caregivers who are available to help them complete tasks as simple as dressing, bathing, and managing their medication. They provide round-the-clock support so that residents can get the care they need and live each day to the fullest.
What is Independent Living in Austin?
Independent living is often confused with assisted living, but the two types of senior living have distinct differences. Moving into an independent living community does not mean you are giving up your independence.
Independent living communities in Austin are designed to empower residents to make the most of their later years by taking care of everyday tasks like home maintenance and cleaning. This frees residents up to take advantage of the various services and amenities available to them on-site as part of the senior retirement community they now call home.
The important thing to remember about independent living communities is that they offer all the freedoms of living on your own, without the burdens of home ownership. From comprehensive senior wellness programs to a rich community life, there’s no shortage of advantages that come with choosing independent living in Austin, TX.
When to Consider Assisted Living vs Independent Living
How do you know whether assisted living or independent living is right for you or your loved one? How do you know when to move from independent to assisted living? While there are a number of factors to consider, here are a few indicators that it may be time to explore assisted living options:
- Activities of daily living become more of a challenge. Struggles with tasks as common as bathing, dressing, toileting, getting out of bed, and eating.
- Risk of injury around the house. Lacking the mobility to move around the house freely and independently can lead to a fall or other serious injury. If falls are becoming frequent, assisted living can provide the care necessary to reduce them.
- Managing health is becoming a concern. Chronic health conditions and difficulty managing medication are reasons enough to consider assisted living.
- Asking too much of a caregiver. Caregiving can be both rewarding and stressful for the caregiver, who is often a friend or family member. But the responsibilities of being a caregiver can take a toll. If the stress becomes too much, caregiver burnout is a very real possibility and would have a negative impact on everyone involved.
Benefits of Senior Living at Querencia | Premier Independent and Assisted Living Services at Your Fingertips
Both independent and assisted living residents at Querencia have access to many services and amenities aimed at enriching their everyday lives. Not only can they expect to receive personalized assistance tailored to their needs, but they are also treated to chef-prepared meals daily. Therapy and rehabilitation services are also available to residents, in addition to skilled nursing services and memory care programs.
Ready to take the next step and find the senior living community that matches your lifestyle goals? We’re happy to help you explore the different levels of living for you or your loved one. Call us at 512-610-9440 or fill out the form below to get started.
