5 Most Common Levels of Senior Care & How to Choose Each

Independent living communities, also known as “retirement communities” or “senior apartments,” cater to active, self-sufficient seniors who desire a maintenance-free lifestyle with access to amenities and social activities. Residents typically live in private or semi-private apartments or cottages and can utilize mobility more than other forms of care levels. Learn more about independent living here.

Services often include: housekeeping, maintenance, and meal options.

Is independent living right for you?

• You value your independence and can manage daily activities like cooking, cleaning, and medication management.
• You're looking for a vibrant community atmosphere with social events and activities but don't require assistance with daily tasks.

Level of care provided: none

Assisted living facilities offer a higher level of care and support for seniors who require assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). Residents live in private or semi-private apartments and receive personalized care plans tailored to their individual needs and preferences. Learn more about assisted living here.

Services often include: bathing, dressing, grooming, and medication management, meals, housekeeping, transportation and social activities

Is assisted living right for you?

• You need some help with daily tasks but still desire independence in other areas of your life.
• You'd benefit from a safe and secure environment with staff available 24/7 to provide assistance as needed.
• You're looking for social interaction and activities tailored to your needs and preferences.
  

Level of care provided: moderate support and no medical care

Memory care communities specialize in providing care and support for seniors living a memory-related disorder, such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia. These communities offer a secure environment with trained staff members who are experienced in managing the unique challenges of memory loss. Learn more about memory care. 

Services often include: specialized programming, sensory stimulation activities, and 24-hour supervision and monitoring to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.

Is memory care right for you? 

• You or your loved one is experiencing memory loss, confusion, or difficulty with daily tasks due to dementia.
• You're concerned about wandering or safety hazards at home.
• You're looking for a supportive environment that understands and caters to the specific needs of dementia or Alzheimer's patients.

Level of care provided: moderate

Hospice care is a specialized form of care designed to support individuals with life-limiting illnesses, as well the support for their families during the end-of-life transition. For the benefit of the individual client, hospice services may be provided in various settings, including private residences, nursing homes, or dedicated hospice facilities. A multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals collaborates to deliver compassionate end-of-life care tailored to the unique needs and wishes of each individual. The multidisciplinary team often includes: Physicians, Nurses, Social Workers, Chaplains & Volunteers. Learn more about hospice care here. 

Services often include: managing pain and symptoms, promoting comfort and dignity, and providing emotional and spiritual support to patients and their loved ones.

Is hospice care right for you?

• You or your loved one has been diagnosed with a terminal illness and are in the final stages of life.
• Your focus is on comfort, pain management, and emotional support in a familiar setting.
• You want to make the most of your remaining time and create cherished memories with loved ones.

Level of care provided: high