If you’re reading this, you may be approaching retirement age or already enjoying all that this period of your life offers. This guide is for older adults who are considering moving into a senior living community.
When it comes to senior living, you have options. In this article, we’ll define two of the more common ones: Independent living and assisted living.
What’s the difference between independent living and assisted living? And how do you know which is the right choice for you? Well, at Newcastle Place, a senior living community in Mequon, Wisconsin (a Milwaukee suburb) we have options for both types of living. So we’re well-suited to talk about both of these senior living options, as well as what differentiates us from the others.
What Is Independent Living?
Independent living is a type of residence for those who do not need assistance with daily tasks such as bathing, grooming or dressing. You are able to live your life as you do in your current home, but want to enjoy onsite access to numerous services and amenities. Most independent living residences consist of apartments, townhomes, cottages or condos, which makes upkeep a breeze.
At Newcastle Place, our independent living residents can choose between 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartment homes and standalone carriage homes. Services and amenities include things like bi-weekly housekeeping, chef-prepared meals, on-site health services and much more.
Is an Independent Living Community Right for Me?
If you are someone who is looking to downsize and free yourself of the burdens of homeownership (cleaning, maintenance, yardwork, etc.), but still want to live an independent lifestyle, then independent living may be right for you. Not only will you have a comfortable place to live, but you will also have more time to pursue the hobbies and activities you enjoy.
There are also more opportunities to meet people of a similar age in a community setting, if that’s something that interests you. Things like group activities serve as great icebreakers.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is for people who need part-time or full-time assistance with the activities of daily living. You’ll receive care and needed support from certified nursing assistants and other trained team members. This includes an on-site medical director and visiting physicians.
At Newcastle Place, our goal for assisted living residents is to provide all of the help they need to continue living a joyful life. You’ll still gain access to all-inclusive benefits and a calendar of activities.
Assisted living residents at Newcastle Place have access to their own private suite with a separate bedroom and living area, kitchenette and a large private bath. This allows you to retain your privacy, and the housing’s location is right on-campus so you can still take advantage of our amenities.
Is an Assisted Living Community Right for Me?
When deciding if an assisted living community is right for you, it’s helpful to ask yourself “what is my current health situation like?” Think about your current health and abilities. Can you perform essential tasks you need to — and/or want to — on your own? If the answer is no, or you find yourself struggling to perform certain daily activities, then it may be time for assisted living.
Think of it like this: Assisted living provides the support you need to enjoy life to its fullest. We also recognize that each situation is different. Assisted living caters to your specific needs.
Explore Senior Living Options at Newcastle Place
You now know a little more about independent living and assisted living. Independent living is a great choice for older adults who are able to enjoy life without extra help. If you need or desire part-time or full-time assistance, then you may want to consider assisted living instead.
Regardless of which senior living option fits your current lifestyle, when you’re at Newcastle Place you’ll become part of a vibrant community of residents. You will also have priority access to on-site skilled nursing and rehabilitation, in the event you ever need them. Having all of these different levels of care in a centralized location is one of our greatest strengths.
Contact us to learn more about life at Newcastle Place and all the benefits it brings.
