Independent vs. Assisted Living: What’s the Difference?

February 9, 2015 by ·

Chickasaw, AL – Independent vs. Assisted Living: What’s the Difference?

As people age they will face increasing challenges, they will need to decide whether independent or assisted living is the right option for them. There are many similarities between independent living and assisted living, but there are also some significant differences that should be noted.

Basically, independent living communities, also called retirement communities, are ideal for people who can still take care of their own basic needs, such as bathing, getting dressed, and eating. Seniors who live in these communities may require some assistance when it comes to maintaining their home or running errands. Independent living communities are typically apartments or single family homes located within a gated community.

On the other hand, assisted living is ideal for those individuals who have certain physical or mental limitations.  They need help with basic care activities, such as bathing or preparing meals.

Typically, both assisted living and independent communities provide various amenities and recreational activities.  To determine whether independent living or assisted living is ideal for your loved one, it’s important to consider his or her level of independence.  Can things change in the future? Yes, obviously unforeseen circumstances can and often will arise with regard health and well-being.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Assisted Living near Chickasaw, AL, contact Ashbury Manor Specialty Care and Assisted Living at 251-317-3017.

Filed Under: Assisted Living Chickasaw AL · Tagged:
About Cindy Johnson

Ashbury Manor’s Administrator since 2008, Cindy Johnson is a long-time expert in the assisted living field. Prior to her arrival at Ashbury Manor, Cindy managed acquisitions and crisis management for existing and new larger senior care project developments for eleven years. As regional manager for an Oregon-based assisted living management company, Cindy was directly responsible for operations for five 50-65 bed assisted living facilities. As manager during the transition to new ownership, Cindy reorganized internal operations and conducted leadership training for Executive Directors. As a result of her management and expertise, one of the company’s facilities (in Ocala, Florida) received a deficiency-free survey, resulting in the lifting of a moratorium on operation.

A nurse for 36 years, senior care has always been Cindy’s passion. Desiring to work more closely with residents, Cindy became a Category II Administrator in 2005. As Ashbury Manor’s Administrator, Cindy understands the complexities associated with dementia and cognitive impairment and she has fallen in love with seniors with dementia or cognitive impairment and their families.

Cindy is Treasurer of the local “Senior Coalition” chapter. She enjoys mentoring new candidates who want to become administrators.

As a 16-bed facility, with Cindy's training and experience, our residents and their families can be sure Ashbury Manor’s carefully selected staff provides the expertise of a larger facility while maintaining the individualized personal care of a small special needs home.
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