There are many different types of residential facilities for the care of disabled or elderly people. There are different housing options, varying levels of care, and other lifestyle or special needs options that should be considered when looking for a care facility.
Independent Living Apartments
Independent living apartments are ideal for senior citizens who do not need personal care or medical care and are able to live independently. This type of facility is ideal if the patrons would like to live near other seniors and enjoy their company actively. They can take advantage of the planned events, shopping trips, field trips, projects, and other outings that involve the community. Because this type of facility doesn’t have residents who need to be cared for, these apartments are not licensed or regulated. Think of them as regular apartment complexes or duplexes where only elderly people are allowed to live.
Adult Homes
Adult homes are a type of facility for elderly people or mildly disabled people who are unable to live independently. Adult homes can be used for short-term or long-term residence. There is usually supervision, personal care, housekeeping, and daily meals included for the residents of adult homes. This type of facility is regulated and licensed.
Enriched Housing
Enriched housing is similar to adult homes. The difference in this type of facility is that the seniors live in independent housing units. Supervision, personal care, housekeeping, and daily meals are some of the provisions that may be offered with enriched housing. Enriched housing is licensed by the State Department of Health.
Family-type Homes
Family-type homes offer long-term care, housekeeping, supervision, and meals for a group of adults, usually four or less. These adults are not related to the operator of the family-type home and are generally not related to each other. The department of Social Services oversees the operations for this type of facility.
Assisted Living Program
An assisted living program is an alternative to a nursing home. This type of facility is great for elderly people who need minor help with daily routines and should be monitored on occasionally, but do not need constant 24-hour care. Assisted living offers room, board, and nursing services to the patrons. This type of facility does not have to be paid for out of pocket; it usually accepts Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, and home relief recipients.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (also known as Lifecare communities) offer a variety of facilities all in one location. The types of facilities could range from assisted living to a nursing home. The benefit of this type of facility is that seniors are able to live in the same location for the remainder of their lives, with the occasional change from one level of care to another as needs evolve. For those who must move to a nursing home, the change is easier because they are able to stay in a general location that is still familiar to them and they may interact with many of the same people. This type of facility may require an up-front purchase followed by monthly payments. These payments cover the services, amenities, and any medical care that is needed.
Nursing Home
A nursing home, or a skilled nursing facility, offers continual, 24-hour a day care for senior citizens and disabled people who are no longer able to care for themselves or live by themselves. In this type of facility, trained medical professionals provide specific care to the residents who have special needs or severe illnesses or injuries. A specially trained staff helps the patrons with day-to-day activities, including eating, bathing, housekeeping, and other tasks. Different nursing homes may specialize in different levels of care, such as long-term skilled nursing care or intermediate care.