If you’ve been considering a move to a senior living community, there’s a lot of information to process. Two common terms you may have come across in your research are independent living and assisted living. While they have their similarities, there are also important differences. Read on to learn about which living option might be right for you or a loved one, and what the community at Friendship Village of Bloomington has to offer.
What is Independent Living?
Independent living is much like the name sounds. You live in your own private residence while having access to the amenities and services the community offers. This is an ideal choice for individuals who can handle most regular day-to-day tasks and want help with things like preparing meals or household maintenance.
Ultimately, the goal of an independent living community is to help residents spend more time on what they find most meaningful, with extra support available as needed.
What is Assisted Living?
With assisted living, you still maintain your own private residence and have access to community amenities, but receive a higher level of support with daily tasks and activities. This could include everything from laundry services and transportation to assistance with getting dressed and medication management.
The goals of an assisted living community remain the same as independent living: Help residents get the most out of each day and live their best lives.
The Differences Between Independent Living and Assisted Living
With a high-level understanding of independent living and assisted living, let’s examine some of the key differences between each living option.
Level of Care
Medical care in an independent living community is typically on an as-needed basis. As needs arise, the skilled team at your community will work with you to address those needs now as well as in the future.
The level of care for assisted living is geared toward providing daily support. It will help you participate in the activities you want to enjoy with the added security of having assistance with bathing, grooming, dressing or medication management.
In both independent living and assisted living, team members at a community like Friendship Village of Bloomington will work with you to craft a custom, holistic wellness plan that incorporates physical, social and mental well-being.
Access to Support
No matter which living option you decide is right for you or a loved one, you can count on the dedicated team at Friendship Village of Bloomington to be available around the clock. Should any issues or emergencies arise, you have the comfort of knowing support is immediately available.
Cost
The cost for both independent living and assisted living depends on the community you choose and the level of assistance you require. As a general rule of thumb, assisted living will have higher costs than independent living due to the personalized daily care.
Friendship Village of Bloomington will happily provide a detailed breakdown of costs for each living option to help you understand the differences.
Services and Amenities
Independent living and assisted living residents have full access to the diverse services and amenities at Friendship Village of Bloomington. These are some of the options you’ll find in our community:
- Restaurant-style dining venues
- Library
- Billiards area
- Woodworking shop
- Personal gardening areas
- 9-hole outdoor putting green and golf simulator
- 17,700 square foot fitness center
- Access to a personal trainer
- Indoor pool
- Weekly housekeeping and flat linen service
Living Choice Checklist
Independent living and assisted living have many similarities, but each can help address specific needs. As a quick reference, here’s a checklist with some of the key differences and similarities to keep in mind as you evaluate your decision.
Independent Living
- Live in a private residence
- Manage daily tasks with minimal or no assistance
- Assistance with chores like regular housekeeping and maintenance
- Medical care and support available as-needed
- Mostly self-sufficient lifestyle
Assisted Living
- Live in a private residence
- Dedicated assistance needed for daily tasks such as bathing or medication management
- Assistance with chores like regular housekeeping and maintenance
- Some regular medical care required
- Participate in community activities and amenities with limited assistance
Explore Options at Friendship Village of Bloomington
As you weigh the options of independent living and assisted living for yourself or a loved one, you can count on the supportive team at Friendship Village of Bloomington to help every step of the way. If you have questions or would like to schedule a visit to experience our community for yourself, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
