Active Lifestyle

For active seniors who like to play golf, tennis or other social activities, the Active Lifestyle senior living category offers options for keeping involved with the community. But seniors need not be particularly active to take advantage of "Active Lifestyle Communities". But many lifestyle activity choices are often featured as a part of the Active Lifestyle Community. Active lifestyle communities do not offer long term care options.

Independent Living

Independent living communities are for residents that maintain an independent lifestyle but may also include supportive services or minimal assistance. Some communities for independent living receive assistance from the federal government and residents can choose to participate in offered services and programs. Independent living communities can consist of apartment homes, condominiums or single family homes.

Assisted Living

Assisted living options are available for those who do not need continuous care but have the need for occasional care, usually with meal preparation, socialization and health care needs. Assisted living facilities can range from several individuals sharing a house to large facilities that provide all levels of senior care from assisted living to complete nursing care. Typically, those living in assisted senior living facilities have their own apartment with a kitchen, bathroom and living quarters and may share a larger kitchen and common social areas. Cooked meals are usually provided. Trained staff are normally on-site and can assist with day-to-day needs. The level of care may change from state to state as legislation regulating the assisted living industry varies by state. State certifications are issued only after fairly strict inspections. Other typical services offered in Assisted Living facilities include housekeeping, transportation, health services, hygienic assistance, laundry, recreational activities, exercise programs and access to medical care.

Nursing Care

Nursing care facilities are required to have a nurse available 24 hours per day. Typical residents have physical or cognitive issues that prevent them from living fully on their own. In full nursing care homes, residents have provided meals, help with daily activities and help with recreational and social activities. Also known as Convalescent homes, Nursing homes or nursing facilities are eligible to participate in the Medicaid Program.

Continuing Care

Also known by its acronym CCRC, Continuing Care Retirement Communities offer several levels of assistance for seniors. Continuing care facilities often offer a combination Independent Living, Assisted Living and Nursing Home Care operations within one or multiple campus structures. The relationship between continuing care facilities and residents usually involves a contract that ensures the eventual progression between levels of care and often extends through the life of the resident.

Alzheimer's Care

An Alzheimer's focused care center specializes in the many facets of assistance needed for those suffering from Alzheimer's. Treatment and care are geared toward maintaining a controlled and safe environment and providing for basic living assistance while meeting resident's fundamental needs.