Roughly 2.1 million people live in senior housing facilities in the United States; however, the services these people receive vary depending on the type of living situation they have. Here’s an overview of the key differences between independent living and assisted living.
What’s the Difference Between Independent Living and Assisted Living?
Key differences between independent living and assisted living centers include the level of care, services provided, living arrangements, social environment, regulatory oversight and cost. If you’re searching for senior housing for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to familiarize yourself with these differences so you can identify the right type of facility for your needs.
Level of Care
Independent living facilities are designed for seniors who can manage their daily activities without assistance. Residents live independently in a community that offers various amenities and social opportunities.
Assisted living, on the other hand, offers support for seniors who need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, medication management and mobility. These facilities have staff who provide residents with personal care and assistance.
Services Provided
Independent living focuses on providing convenience and lifestyle services such as housekeeping, transportation, meal plans, social activities and recreational facilities. These communities typically do not offer healthcare services.
Assisted living Includes personal care services, healthcare monitoring and emergency response. Compared to independent living facilities, assisted living communities provide more comprehensive care.
Living Arrangements
In independent living, residents usually live in private apartments or other types of housing units. These communities may offer communal dining areas, fitness centers and other shared spaces to encourage social interaction.
In assisted living, residents typically have private or semi-private apartments. The community design often incorporates features to enhance safety and accessibility for residents with mobility or health concerns.
Social Environment
Independent living emphasizes an active and engaged lifestyle with numerous opportunities for socializing, participating in hobbies and joining community events. Since residents of independent living facilities generally don’t require support with mobility or day-to-day tasks, they can offer wider varieties of social opportunities.
Assisted living facilities also encourage social interaction and activities; however, these communities focus more on providing a supportive environment where residents can receive the care they need. Staff members carefully select social activities that are accessible to residents with limited mobility and other health concerns.
Security and Safety Features
Independent living communities typically offer standard security features, such as gated entries, surveillance and emergency call systems.
Since assisted living residents require higher levels of care, facilities offer enhanced security and safety measures. These may include 24/7 staffing, frequent resident checks, emergency response systems, motion sensors and bed alarms.
Regulatory Oversight
Independent living communities have less regulatory oversight than assisted living facilities because they do not offer health and personal care services. Regulations governing independent living facilities are similar to regulations that govern other types of rental housing.
Assisted living facilities must abide by more rigorous state regulations regarding elements such as staffing, safety protocols, resident care and emergency procedures. Government agencies also regularly inspect these facilities to ensure they meet the required standards of care.
Cost
Senior living arrangements are a major investment. One of the key factors that seniors and their loved ones analyze when deciding between independent living vs. assisted living is the cost.
Independent living generally costs less than assisted living, as it does not include medical or personal care services. Costs typically cover rent, amenities and any optional services selected by the resident. The exact cost of independent living varies depending on the location and amenities of the selected community.
The National Council on Aging reported that the largest operator of senior living facilities in the United States offers prices ranging from $1,650 to $16,155 per month for independent living, with the most affordable prices in the southeast.
Assisted living generally costs more than independent living due to the added personal care and medical services. Costs cover housing, meals and a variety of care services. The National Council on Aging reported that the average cost of assisted living in the United States is $4,500 per month, or $54,000 annually.
Residents of independent and assisted living communities may pay for their accommodations and services with personal savings, assets and insurance benefits. Some residents may use Medicare or Medicaid to cover healthcare services received in their senior living facility.
Individuals who may not be able to afford the cost of a senior living facility can contact their local HUD Housing Authority or their local HUD Counseling Agency to learn more about HUD resources available in their area.
Deciding Between Assisted Living vs. Independent Living
The choice between independent living and assisted living has a major impact on the level of care, services, living arrangements, social environment, regulatory oversight and costs you can expect.
Before making a decision, carefully consider which type of facility is most compatible with your needs. For more information on affordable housing–including affordable housing for seniors–check out our other senior living resources or review the available listings in your area.
