As adults get older, they often need to adjust their living arrangements for convenience, health reasons, and more. Fortunately, there are three primary types of living communities available for older adults throughout Utah and beyond.
Not sure which senior living community is right for you or your loved ones? Let’s break down these types of communities in more detail.
Active Adult/Independent Living Communities
Active adult or independent living communities are neighborhoods or retirement communities designed for older adults. Elder residents can purchase or rent units at these locations, which often come with various amenities like meals, housekeeping and laundry services, transportation options, and more.
These communities are intended for adults who don’t need help with daily tasks but who may benefit from living in communities with like-minded individuals, where they can socialize freely without having to worry as much about property maintenance or chores as they would at their private homes.
Who Are These Communities Best For?
Independent living communities are perfect for older adults who don’t currently have any ongoing health complications or problems. They are great for adults who want to downsize and sell their old home to transition to a slower, more manageable lifestyle surrounded by other seniors in their generation.
Assisted Living Residences
Assisted living residences are similar to independent living communities, but offer additional personal and healthcare services to their residents. These services can include assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) like taking medicine, bathing, getting dressed, and so on.
Depending on their residents’ needs, certain units in an assisted living facility may include additional amenities or services, such as call buttons for nursing help, easy access to transportation, and more.
Who Are These Communities Best For?
Assisted living communities are ideal for individuals who are still largely active mostly independent, but who may also need some assistance with daily tasks or chores. Additionally, these communities can be good choices for older adults who want to err on the side of caution and have accessible medical care readily available in the event of a health complication.
Skilled Nursing
Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), also called extended care facilities or nursing homes, are more advanced living facilities for older adults and offer more in-depth services. SNFs provide medical care and ancillary services for their residents, and they are staffed with health professionals such as nurses 24 hours a day.
Depending on circumstances or requirements, older adults may stay in nursing homes temporarily or may live in them long-term.
Who Are These Communities Best For?
Skilled nursing facilities, due to their medical staff and extended healthcare resources, are ideal for seniors who are recovering from health conditions or injuries, as well as elders that need someone to provide regular assistance more frequently throughout the day. Furthermore, certain Medicare and Medicaid packages cover nursing home services/costs.
Average Cost of These Communities in Utah
While Utah’s general cost of living is lower than the national average, it’s also important to take the average cost of older adult living communities into account when choosing between them.
For example, one-bedroom apartments at some independent living communities can be as inexpensive as $682 per month. Larger units may have higher costs, as much as $1542 per month, depending on amenities offered.
Meanwhile, Utah assisted living facilities cost an average of $3150 per month. Nursing facilities in Utah, on the other hand, cost an average of $5627 per month. Keep in mind that prices will vary dramatically based on your insurance coverage, the location of the community, and more.
As you can see, there are multiple choices available for you or your loved ones if you need to make a change and choose a living community designed for older adults. Consider your options carefully and think about which community type would be best for you and/or your loved one’s needs.
Need help choosing an assisted living facility? Contact us at 385-422-2500 or at rrahlf@youroasisadvisor.com today! Our team can assist you with finding a community that meets your needs, preferences, and budget.