When it comes to senior living communities, there are several different levels of living older adults can consider. This also means there’s some terminology to figure out. The difference between Assisted Living and Long Term Care, or what used to be called a nursing home, is an important distinction for older adults and their families to know. This is especially important if considering moving to a senior living community.
Assisted Living is just like the name sounds – extra assistance balanced with independence. Assistance with activities of daily living such as dressing, bathing, and toileting, is available to residents who live in Assisted Living. In Assisted Living, staff is available 24-hours a day to help with these activities. In addition to personal care assistance and medication administration, Lutheran Senior Services (LSS) communities provide many opportunities in Assisted Living – and other levels of living as well – for residents to be active and continue to be engaged, contributing members of the community.
Long Term Care is where residents receive 24-hour care from nursing staff. In Long Term Care there is also oversight from a medical director. This level of living is sometimes referred to as the Care Center; it is also used to be known as a nursing home. LSS staff customizes care plans to each Care Center resident’s needs and preferences. In LSS communities, residents in Long Term Care have opportunities to participate in activities and to be a part of the larger community.
A Life Plan Community includes all levels of living – from Independent Living to Assisted Living to Memory Care to Long Term Care. Within a Life Plan Community, residents are able to move between levels should their needs change.
In addition to receiving assistance or care, if needed, senior living communities provide many other benefits to residents. Increased socialization found in community living has shown to have positive impacts on health. Throughout all levels of living, LSS believes in our mission of Older Adults Living Life to the Fullest. LSS communities provide comfortable surroundings, caring staff, and opportunities to participate in different activities to learn new skills, have new experiences, and continue to challenge oneself.
Moving to Assisted Living or Long Term Care is a change in a person’s life. Read our blog on advice for transitioning to Assisted Living or Long Term Care to learn more about how to help your loved one during this time.
To learn more about the different levels of living and what to ask about and look for when visiting senior living communities, watch our educational video about options in senior living.