Everyone has the right to live willingly as part of a community. Thousands of people living with disabilities are kept in long stay hospitals. Living in a long stay hospital means you don’t get a choice or control over:
• What you do day to day
• Things you can do in your spare time
• Meeting family and friends
• Taking part in a local community
Most of us take for granted opportunities we have regarding living arrangements, employment situations, means of transportation, social and recreational activities, and other aspects of everyday life. For many people living with disabilities, barriers in their communities take away or severely limit their choices to live carefree.
Assisted living is a residential community for people who need help with everyday activities, such as bathing and dressing. Since residents usually live in their own private or semi-private apartments, these communities are able to offer a supportive atmosphere that is still independent. Residents can typically tailor the support services to match their needs, so they can perform more of less of their own daily tasks according to their current abilities.
Assisted Living or Independent Living: Get the care you need with Advocating Care Services
Who it’s for: Assisted living communities are a good choice for seniors and people with physical disabilities who need help with tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, taking medications, and using the restroom.
Who it’s not for: Assisted living is not a good choice for people who are still able to live independently, as the unneeded services may result in a higher cost than independent living facilities. However, it can still be a good choice for those who are mostly independent now, but will need support for daily living in the not-too-distant future, since many have programs and services designed to help seniors transition from a low level of care to a more comprehensive care plan.
What’s available: Assisted living communities are similar to independent living communities, with services including meals, transportation, and social activities. However, assisted living communities also have support services for activities of daily life, including hygiene, fall prevention, and housekeeping. Often, assisted living communities provide additional medical care as residents’ needs increase as they age. Some contract with local health care providers that can come in to offer medical care as needs increase.
Independent living is where disabled people can participate in day-to-day life, living where they choose and making decisions that lead to self-determination. Independent Living is a philosophy of people living with disabilities who work for self-determination, equal opportunities and self-respect. Independent living offers a home or apartment in a community designed for seniors and people with disabilities. Residents live in private apartments or homes with access to common areas. It offers convenience and a low-maintenance lifestyle, but does not have the same level of support as assisted living.
Who it’s for: Typically, people who choose independent living are able to live on their own, but prefer the convenience of having services available to minimize their daily tasks. Independent living is a good choice for seniors and people with disabilities who do not need assistance with daily living and want to join a community with social and entertainment opportunities.
Who it’s not for: Since independent living does not offer full time health care or help with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, or taking medication, it’s not a good choice for people who need these support services, or those who may need them in the near future.
What’s available: In an independent living community, residents get convenient access to services that are designed to minimize daily responsibilities, such as laundry, housekeeping, on-site dining, transportation, and security. Activities, events, and entertainment are typically available with the community. Amenities may include on-site gyms, beauty salons, and pools. Some have periodic access to medical care, but independent living communities typically do not have full time staff dedicated to medical care.
