Looking into your senior care and living options, but are unsure what some of the commonly used terms mean? Find the answers you are looking for in our useful glossary.
Aging in Place
This term refers to individuals who choose to spend their post-retirement life at home, whether they are doing so independently, with the help of family members, or by engaging in-home caregivers.
Assisted Living
Assisted living is a care option for individuals who need help with activities of daily living. These can include but are not limited to: personal care, continence management, dining assistance, medication management, ambulatory and transfer assistance, and more.
Dementia
Dementia in itself is not a disease, but a range of symptoms that accompany a specific set of conditions, usually memory-related. For instance, the most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, a degenerative and progressive condition that is characterized by loss of cognitive functioning over time. Other causes of dementia include Parkinson’s disease and head injuries.
Independent Living
When used in the context of senior living, independent living refers to the lifestyle option most suited to individuals who are in relatively good health. This includes individuals who do not require assistance with accomplishing daily living activities and have little to no medical needs.
The benefits of moving to an independent living community include: the comfort and convenience of having stylish amenities within walking distance, increased socialization opportunities, and having basic living needs such as housekeeping and meals taken care of.
Long-Term Care
Long-term care is a broad term that refers to the care provided to someone who has lost all or part of their capacity to function independently. This can be due to reasons such as the onset of a disease or mobility restrictions. There are numerous long-term care options to choose from, including hiring in-home care and moving to a senior living community. Funding for long-term care can be obtained through private means or long-term care insurance, if applicable.
Memory Care
Memory care is a senior living option specifically designed to improve the quality of life for individuals with dementia and other memory-related conditions. A person-centered approach and the latest industry practices are utilized, based on scientific facts and years of training. In memory care, compassionate team members will develop a personalized care plan for residents based on their unique needs and abilities.
Personal Care
Personal care refers to the daily living activities that are concerned with hygiene and appearance. This includes bathing, grooming, dressing, shaving, continence management, and more. Assistance with personal care can be provided in a senior living community.
Senior Living Community
When considering your senior care options, you will come across two main choices: in-home care and residential care. Senior living communities are a residential option that provides everything residents need in their day-to-day life. This goes beyond personal care assistance and medical services to consider all aspects of health, including mental and social. Residents can expect to benefit from recreational activities and social events to pass their time meaningfully in a senior living community.