Communities – Live Well Senior Care Connections

WITH SO MANY OPTIONS, WHERE DO YOU START?

Many older adults want to stay in their home for as long as possible, but the cost of hiring caregivers to help out with activities of daily living - even just a few days a week - adds up very quickly and can be cost-prohibitive. Also, recent studies show that living alone and social isolation contribute to decreased sense of well-being, loneliness, and a lowered quality of life. In fact, the effects of chronic loneliness have even been compared to those of “smoking a half-pack of cigarettes a day for many years" and can increase older adults' risk of developing dementia by 50%, and even increase the risk of premature death.

BUT WHAT IS THE ALTERNATIVE?

If when you think of a senior living community, you think of a sterile nursing home with wheelchairs in the hallways, you're not alone because that's what is most prevalent in the media and what was most available in the past.

The good news is that senior living options have changed drastically during the past 20+ years and many are now more like a cruise ship on land offering all-inclusive living with extensive socialization opportunities, gourmet meals, wine tastings, creative endeavors, lifelong learning opportunities, exciting group outings and much more.

Explore the links below for information about the different types of communities that are available.

INDEPENDENT LIVING ASSISTED LIVING MEMORY CARE RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES

INDEPENDENT LIVING

For seniors who enjoy their independence but no longer want the responsibilities of owning a home and prefer all-inclusive living with the opportunity to age in place if care needs increase, as many of these communities have assisted living and memory care options as well. They offer social opportunities, a hassle-free lifestyle and connection. Residents can typically choose between private apartments or cottages with access to communal areas, such as dining rooms, lounges, common areas, outdoor spaces, activity areas and special events. The sense of community this senior living option fosters can be vital for individuals who may have become isolated or lonely.

ASSISTED LIVING

Assisted living communities are perfect for those who might need assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, personal hygiene, assistance with meals and medication management provided by trained and caring professionals. They offer a safe environment that promotes independence and enhances quality of life for residents and are often 'blended' within an independent living community so moving isn't necessary as care needs increase. A variety of activities and programs designed to stimulate the mind and give residents opportunities to connect with each other since socialization and engagement with others can be especially important for individuals who may be isolated or lonely.

MEMORY CARE

Memory care communities are specialized, secure 'neighborhoods' designed for those who have been diagnosed with different forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s. They are staffed by specially trained professionals who are skilled in caring for individuals with cognitive decline and functioning. The entire staff is trained to recognize the unique needs, preferences, and personalities of each resident and encourage them to be as independent as possible to enhance their quality of life and maintain their dignity.

These communities also provide opportunities for socialization and engagement with others, which can be especially important for individuals with memory loss challenges. Other amenities we look for are programs designed to keep the brain engaged and help residents find purpose and meaning.

RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES

Residential Care Homes are situated in residential neighborhoods and typically have six to eight residents offering private and shared rooms. These intimate environments have a live-in caregiver available 24/7 and provide a higher resident-to-caregiver ratio than larger communities resulting in highly personalized assistance and support for individuals who need help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as personal hygiene, dressing, getting in and out of bed or chair, walking, using the toilet and eating). Many residents who move into these residential group homes have some form of cognitive impairment, so in addition to assistance with ADLs, they also provide opportunities for socialization and engagement with others through a variety of activities and programs designed to stimulate the mind and the body and provide opportunities for residents to connect with others.

INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE | RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES | RESPITE

Sherri is a Godsend! She has helped me and my family find great affordable care for our mother and provided resources to help us navigate insurance coverage as well! We can’t say enough good things about Sherri and her tireless commitment to helping seniors and their families.

David & Gay G. (Vista, CA)

The options we provide are based on our intimate knowledge of each community, personal experience as a family caregiver and certification as a senior advisor.

Get Started Today