Retirement homes in The Colony, TX, and long-term care facilities are two different housing types, but they offer similar services. They’re both designed for aging loved ones who need help with daily living, but there are some key differences between them. Here’s what you need to know before moving into either kind of facility:
Retirement Homes Are Designed for People Who Need Only Minor Assistance with Daily Living
Retirement homes are usually independent living environments, while long-term care facilities provide more support. In a retirement home, residents live independently and can do whatever they want. They need some help with things like cooking or cleaning up around their apartment. This is where you might find an older person who still drives but would like help getting into their car or paying bills. Some retirement homes offer full medical care and nursing assistance if needed; others don’t provide any of these services on-site at all—but they might have arrangements with nearby hospitals or clinics so that your loved one can get medical attention as needed without having to go far from home.
Retirement homes also tend to be smaller than long-term care facilities (only one or two floors instead of multiple floors), which means they can offer a more intimate environment.
This can be a large difference between the two types of homes. It’s why many older adults prefer long-term care facilities over retirement homes. Choose to move into an ALF or LTCF. You will likely have 24-hour assistance available, so you don’t need to worry about helping yourself with anything like bathing or eating (although some communities will encourage residents to participate in these activities). However, if you choose a retirement home where you live independently and may still be able to do things on your own (such as walking around), then there won’t be any staff available at all times.
Long-Term Care Facilities May Be Required to Provide Medical Services or Equipment.
If you’ve ever visited a long-term care facility (LTC), you know that most of them provide medical services on-site. The nursing team is trained to look after patients who can still live independently but require assistance with daily tasks such as bathing and dressing.
At retirement homes, there’s no need for this level of care. Most retirees live alone or are well-supported by family members—meaning they don’t need constant medical attention for every small issue. While some retirement homes may offer limited medical services (like a doctor’s visit once a month), others don’t provide such resources.
If You’re Not Sure Which You Need, Ask!
If you’re unsure which option is right for you and your family, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Talk with your family doctor and friends or relatives who have experience with different types of senior living and senior-friendly assisted living communities. You can also talk to the people who work in the community itself—they may be able to give you some insight into what those options are like and help clarify any misconceptions that might be floating around in your head.
