There are so many options available that it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the vast number of many senior housing care types and styles of senior living communities. As the families continue to get together over the holidays and have discussions about planning for the future, where do they start? The team at The GreenFields Continuing Care Community would suggest that it is helpful to learn the terminology and differences between care options available to seniors so that you can help make the right choice for your loved ones.
Here’s the first part of our guide to help you learn more about the different types of senior housing options available in the U.S. In another post, we’ll examine other options.
1. Independent Living Communities
Senior independent living communities serve seniors who are largely independent and have few medical issues. In this scenario, residents live in fully equipped private apartments.
Usually, various apartment types are available, from studios to large two bedrooms. Often, dining services are offered with special meal packages. This can mean that residents can choose to pay for a specified number of meals per day. Just like at The GreenFields, residents can choose from amongst numerous social outings, events, and entertainment options.
We believe GreenField Manor is an ideal solution for people looking for affordable, quality residential living and a place to enjoy retirement. Our independent living apartments provide a friendly place where life truly is beautiful. You can spend less time performing daily chores and more time pursuing the things you enjoy, like hobbies, travel, reading or visiting with friends. Courtesy scheduled transportation, restaurant-style dining, and a staff whose primary purpose is to provide service second-to-none are part of the package. Housekeeping and maintenance services are also provided.
Independent Living Communities are also known as:
- 55 + Communities
- Senior Apartments
- Retirement Communities
- Congregate Care
- Retirement Villages
- Continuing Care Retirement Communities
2. Nursing Homes
Nursing homes, such as those offered at The GreenFields, provide 24-hour skilled nursing care for seniors who require a high level of medical care. Many nursing homes also provide short-term rehabilitative stays for those recovering from an illness, injury or surgery.
Long-term residents usually have high care needs and complex medical conditions requiring routine skilled nursing services. Residents are typically served meals in a central dining area unless they are too ill to do so. Activities are also available. Some facilities have a separate memory care unit. At The GreenFields Continuing Care Community, this option is called GreenField Terrace and is designed specifically for Alzheimer’s residents.
At The GreenFields, our skilled nursing long-term care residents receive the unique day-to-day services they require. Our goal is to make the golden years truly beautiful, with a focus on dignity and providing the highest quality of life possible. Besides skilled nursing care, residents also have priority access to the other services available on The GreenFields campus, including assisted living, enhanced assisted living, rehabilitation, and memory care.
Nursing Homes are also known as:
- Nursing Center
- Skilled Nursing
- Convalescent Care
- Long Term Care Facility
3. Assisted Living
Assisted Living communities are designed for seniors who are no longer able to live on their own safely yet don’t require the higher level of care offered in a nursing home. Assistance with medications, activities of daily living, meals and housekeeping are routinely provided. Usually, three meals per day are provided in a central dining room.
Residents live in private apartments which usually have a modest kitchen area. Staff are available around the clock for additional safety. Most assisted living communities provide licensed nursing services. Social activities and scheduled transportation are also available. GreenField Court offers Assisted Living at The GreenFields Continuing Care Community.
Assisted Living is also known as:
- Assisted Care Community
- Personal Care Home
Learn More
The mission of The GreenFields Continuing Care Community is to provide for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of those we serve in a Christian environment. We believe in the dignity and worth of each individual and that every resident of our continuing care communities should be encouraged to retain or regain the highest level of independence possible. As such, we provide a variety of care and service options – from residential living and outpatient rehabilitation to long-term skilled nursing and memory care – all so you can make the right choice for your needs. Contact us to learn more.
