Independent And Assisted Living: What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when it comes time to make big decisions. One of the biggest and most difficult could be introducing your loved one to a senior living community. There are a lot of different options and just as many anxieties. Each type of service offered at senior living facilities is designed to meet the unique needs and preferences of the individual. 

The programs offered at The Windsor Senior Living Community are tailored around the individual looking to join. With a plethora of amenities and options, we make sure your loved one has everything they need to thrive. We also strive to make sure you have the necessary tools to make an informed decision. To help you better navigate the options we offer, let’s take a closer look at the unique living options we offer.

Want to know the differences between independent and assisted living in Covington? Ask The Windsor today!

Independent Living For Adults

Independent living is very similar to assisted living. The key difference is that seniors in an independent living community are able to perform most day-to-day tasks and don’t require outside assistance to live on their own. Tasks like meal prepping and light housekeeping are included in the facility costs. Although some residents might opt in for a meal plan or housekeeping services, you are still free to cook your own meals at your own leisure. Seniors living in independent facilities are also are given convenient transportation to doctor’s appointments, activities, and community outings with other members!

Assisted Living Facilities

Assisted living is a step up in terms of service and care compared to independent living. These assisted living options are catered to the more elderly seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as house care, meal preparation, medication maintenance, bathing, dressing, and other forms of assistance. Even though the rendered services vary in degree, assisted living residents have their apartment on the same floor as independent living residents. Residents requiring assisted living services are treated in the privacy of their own apartment. 

How Do You Choose Between The Two?

As you make an assessment as to which form of care is the most appropriate for your loved one, it is imperative you discuss each option thoroughly. Take your loved one’s needs and interests in mind so they can maintain the lifestyle that suits them best. Autonomy is a sensitive subject for some, so it’s important to remind your loved one that both options are full of benefits to help them live an active lifestyle. If you want to know more, don’t wait to schedule a tour today!

If your loved one is in relatively good health and mobile on their own, then independent living might be more suitable than assisted living. However, if assistance is needed when it comes to medicine or daily tasks, it might be more reasonable to choose a different option. That’s where our assisted living facility in Covington comes in. If you have any questions about what the right move might be, don’t hesitate to contact Windsor Senior Living at (985) 624-8040 or fill out a form online. Our experts are standing by to help you with whatever questions you may have. 

Knowing When To Choose a Retirement Community

Life is full of difficult choices. One big one is when to admit you can’t care for your parent or loved one any longer. Many struggle with this choice because they feel like they may be failing as a caretaker—but that’s not true! You know well that you are not a professional. Don’t you think they deserve professional help? Take a look into the retirement communities near New Orleans and see why it may be what your loved one needs in their life. 

Signs They Need Help

There comes a point when living on your own becomes difficult, if not impossible. Many families begin questioning what to do next. But it’s time to look at the facts. If they’re having the following issues, it may be time to think about outside help:

  • They’re lonely. We all need companionship in our lives. And yes, while you’re there for them, it may not be everything they need. At a retirement community, your loved one can find lasting friendships with people of the same age and interests.
  • Walking has become difficult. If they need a walker to go anywhere, it may be time for a change. What happens if you can’t be there or if the walker has been misplaced? 
  • Cleaning is no longer an option. Even chores can be difficult in our older years. Eventually, things build up and can cause even more problems. If no one’s cleaning, bacteria can make the home a very hostile place to live.
  • Weight loss. Many elderly individuals have issues with weight. And it really could be anything causing it. They could be forgetting to eat, having a decreased appetite, or just find cooking too difficult to do anymore. At retirement communities in New Orleans, the staff ensures they get fed regularly. 

There are a number of reasons as to why it may be time to look into retirement communities. But while they may need help, you also need to ask yourself, “Do I need help?” That is to say, is it time to step back?

When should you think about retirement communities near New Orleans?

When YOU Need Help

The elder in your care isn’t the only one in need. As a caretaker, it can be easy to forget your own needs when you’re putting someone else’s before yours. Overall, there are two big reasons why you need to think about stepping back.

  • You don’t have enough time. This isn’t your fault. You’re an adult and have your own life to attend to. It’s difficult to go to the store, pick up your kids, or do many other tasks when you’re responsible for another person. 
  • You cannot keep up physically. Caring for another person can be taxing. Especially if you’re doing double the chores, helping them walk, etc. It’s okay to admit when you can no longer keep up.

Know when it’s time to sit down and look at your options. Consider choosing from the retirement communities near New Orleans and getting a new start for both of you. 

Your Choice Of Retirement Communities Near New Orleans

It’s responsible to know when to admit that your loved one needs professional help. And as your choice of retirement communities near New Orleans, The Windsor is here to help! Schedule your tour today and grab a look at your future home. Have a question for us? Contact us today either online or by calling 985-624-8040. We’re happy to help you with whatever you need.