Choices for Senior Housing

The choices for Senior Housing in Loudoun vary according to the amount of care provided for the activities of daily living and medical care. Aging in Place

Continuing to live at home means you are in a familiar place with neighbors that you know and a community around you. Home care services can help you remain independent in your home, and include everything from in-home care to day care. You may also decide to make home modifications to make your life easier and safer, such as installing a wheelchair ramp, railings, grab bars, chair lift, or emergency alert system.

Independent living

Independent living is generally referred to as any housing arrangement that is designed exclusively for seniors. This can also be referred to as retirement communities, retirement homes, senior housing, and senior apartments. This particular type of housing is for older adults—it’s smaller, compact, easier to navigate, and includes help with maintenance of the exterior of the home. Recreational centers or clubhouses may be on site.

Assisted Living

In general, assisted living is a housing option for those who need help with some activities of daily living, including minor help with medications. Costs can vary according to the level of daily help required, although staff can be available 24 hours a day.

Some assisted living facilities provide apartment-style living with small kitchens, while others provide additional rooms. In some, you may share a room to reduce your cost. Most facilities have a group dining area and common areas for social and recreational activities.

Continuing Care Retirement Community

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) include independent living, assisted living, and nursing home care all in one location, so that you can stay in the same community as your housing needs change over time. Typically you buy a unit in the community and pay monthly fees that increase as you require higher levels of care. One benefit is that spouses can still be very close to one another even if one requires a higher level of care.

Nursing Home

A nursing home is usually the highest level of care for older adults. Assistance is usually provided for activities of daily living, but they differ from other senior housing in that they also provide a high level of medical care. A licensed physician supervises each resident’s care and a nurse or other medical professional is almost always onsite. Skilled nursing care and medical professionals such as occupational or physical therapists are also available.