Senior Apartments in the Senior Living Continuum
When you think of homes in a senior living community, what comes to mind? If you haven’t visited a retirement community in the past 10 years, you might be surprised to know that today’s older adults can live in a spacious and well-appointed residence with modern finishes and upgrades that can rival a contemporary condo. Let us tell you a bit about what you can expect between senior apartments throughout the senior care continuum, including residences in independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing.
Senior Apartments in Independent Living
Independent living communities often feature senior apartments that can suit different styles, preferences, and budgets. While you can expect to find one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans in most communities, you might also find den or study options and additional bedrooms.
Apartment homes are most common in independent living communities, though your home won’t seem small by any means! Look for a home that includes a patio or balcony, as well as large windows for natural light. You can also find homes that feature complete kitchens with modern finishes, parking, and climate-controlled storage units.
You’ll be able to furnish and style your independent living home in any way you’d like. Apartments come unfurnished so that you can settle in and make it your own.
In addition to a beautiful home, independent living residents also get access to the retirement community’s amenities and shared spaces including walking paths, a swimming pool, wellness center, and onsite restaurants.
Senior Apartments in Assisted Living
Assisted living communities most commonly feature apartment homes for residents as well. Apartment floor plans are often studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom options, though each community is different.
When searching for assisted living apartments, look for one that suits your budget and preferences. Remember, you’ll be able to take advantage of the community’s large shared spaces, like a private dining room, living rooms, and library, so downsizing living space in the apartment doesn’t mean a downsized lifestyle.
Look for a home that features outdoor access via a patio or balcony, as well as a kitchen. Assisted living includes three meals daily in the community’s dining room, so a kitchenette will suit most adults just fine.
Like senior apartments in independent living, apartments in assisted living are unfurnished so that you’ll be able to bring in cherished items and your own style.
Senior Apartments in Memory Care
Memory care communities are highly specialized environments, designed down to the last detail to support those living with cognitive decline. For this reason, you will most likely find studio apartments featuring a living/sleeping space and a private bathroom. Residents are encouraged to leave their apartment often, spending the majority of their day in the community’s shared spaces with neighbors and support staff.
Depending on the community, you might find that the apartments come unfurnished so that you can bring in items that the resident feels most at-home with. When you move your loved one in, bring in comfort items like family photos for the walls, favorite bedding, and a few memorable mementos.
Memory care communities should be safe for residents to wander about, and will often feature shared spaces like a sunroom, enclosed courtyard, community kitchen, living room, and dining room.
Senior Apartments in Skilled Nursing
Finally, skilled nursing communities also offer a variety of floor plan options. You will likely be able to find studio options with either private or shared bathrooms, as well as shared room options. These rooms come furnished with specialized beds, a wardrobe, and bedside table.
Which type of senior living is best for you? Speak with your physician to determine what might suit you best now and in the future.