There are several factors to consider when looking for an independent living community that suits you or your loved one. For some, access to care, such as onsite nurses and transitional care opportunities, are important while others prefer the amenities of a retirement community. The following details can help you determine which type of independent living is appropriate for you and/or your loved one.
Care and Community Support Offerings
If care offerings are important to you, Dr. Ouslander recommends looking for readily available and reliable in-home medical assistance and an onsite clinic staffed by both physicians and nurse practitioners that provides a full spectrum of treatment, including (but not limited to) physical therapy, podiatry, optometry, audiology and nutrition counseling services.
“I believe most people should ensure their facility has a nurse onsite or, at minimum, caregivers overnight, as even an independent person can have an accident or ailment, such as a fall with injury, stroke or heart attack, and they will need help if [they are] alone,” explains Dr. Ostroff. “Alternatively or in addition, a call button works for this purpose as well.”
For people who can’t or prefer not to drive, transportation options are another detail to consider, says Dr. Ostroff. For example, an onsite driver or transportation service could take residents to doctor appointments, church services, shopping and more.
Amenities
Desired amenities are unique to each individual. Retirement communities often offer a community center, pool, golf course and tennis court. Meanwhile, CCSHCs usually offer more amenities due to their ability to provide multiple levels of care. They typically have a dining hall providing meals and snacks, as well as a fitness center, and some may have onsite salons for hair appointments and assistance with hygiene and hair washing, says Dr. Ouslander.
Staff Qualifications
Although independent living communities may not have specific qualifications for general staff, many require employees to complete training in emergency preparedness, such as in the event of a fire or natural disaster, as well as infection control. If you choose a community with nurses and medical staff or professional services like transportation or personal training, you can inquire about certifications for specific staff members. It’s preferred to have staff trained in basic lifesaving skills, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Always make sure to check the facility’s accreditation status. Licensing requirements and accreditation for facilities that provide continuing care vary by state, so research your state’s requirements to better determine the quality of a community you’re considering.
Activities
If you’re hoping to benefit from an active community setting and socialize with others, some independent living facilities offer social group activities, including card games, mahjong and organized entertainment, says Dr. Ouslander. Certain communities may also feature physical wellness activities like group fitness classes. Both retirement communities and CCSHCs usually present residents with the opportunity to socialize, so be sure to inquire about what social activities various facilities provide.
Proximity to Family and Essentials
Independent living options exist in urban, suburban and rural settings, says Dr. Ostroff, so taking into account your activities outside of the home may help you zoom in on locations to consider.
“If someone needs frequent care or frequently visits their doctor’s office, they may want to live close by,” says Dr. Ostroff. “Living near a child or other family member or friend is a nice feature as well.”
Meanwhile, some people may choose to move to an independent living community to achieve a sense of self-sufficiency and establish boundaries if they’ve been living with a family caregiver who provided them with transportation assistance, meals and more.
