What is the difference between retirement homes and senior living communities? They are similar in some ways, but like comparing community colleges to universities, it’s all a matter of, well, degrees.
Let’s break down some of the main differences:
Social engagement at retirement homes and independent living communities
Both retirement homes and independent senior living communities offer opportunities to gather and socialize. At each, you’ll find things like art classes, happy hours, and card games.
Retirement homes focus more on residents’ care needs than their holistic well-being. For example, bingo is popular because it’s simple, fun, and works on cognition and motor skills.
Independent senior living communities offer just what the name implies—independence around lifestyle choices along with self-directed enrichment opportunities. Senior living is about community and camaraderie. At independent living communities like Horizon House, event and club calendars are packed with an array of engaging activities to choose from. The culture is more bridge than bingo where residents can pursue their passions, share them with friends, and enjoy intellectual stimulation.
Medical and nursing care differences in retirement homes and senior living communities
Retirement homes and independent senior living communities differ fundamentally in their depth of care services. Retirement homes focus more on seniors who are unable to live independently and need around-the-clock nursing care and support. Residents may have memory challenges or health conditions that require medical assistance, pharmacy services, and specialized support.
Independent living offers a range of wellness programs and services, but the focus isn’t on medical care. Some, like Horizon House, are Continuing Care Retirement Communities. According to the Washington Continuing Care Residents Association, a CCRC provides the ability to age in place throughout the years of retirement. They offer a “secure and comfortable place for senior citizens to live, with…a continuum of care as their needs change.” Residents at Horizon House can transition to a higher acuity of care in assisted living—if and when needed. They also benefit from 24/7 nursing care, memory support, and life enrichment activities.
A big clue to the differences between retirement communities and independent living is who is leading the search. Retirement homes are for seniors who require more assistance than they alone can handle, or that their families can provide. This means that usually, it’s the adult children who help their parents search for and find a retirement community. For independent living however, it’s usually the seniors themselves who research and choose this option. They are still active and interested in making the most out of their retirement years. They want to remain surrounded by a community with abundant opportunities for social engagement.
Dining services at retirement communities and independent living communities
Dining options are offered at both retirement homes and independent living communities. However, dining at retirement communities is medical care based. There is variety, but nutrition and diet are foremost.
Dining at senior living communities is tailored toward a wide range of resident preferences and meal plans. The overall experience offers more food choices, like bistros and grab and go options, because independent living residents have their own apartments and cottages and can cook for themselves if desired.
If you are looking for your next home, Horizon House in Seattle is a vibrant independent senior living community with a dynamic culture. Here, our residents create the lives they most want to live. Come see for yourself and pay us a visit today!