Independent Living (IL) senior communities are typically apartments, and are mostly rental communities. To qualify to live there, you must be independent and be able to take care of yourself.  In these communities, they frequently have meals served on-site which you can take part in, however you have your own kitchen if you prefer to cook for yourself.  Most, if not all, utilities (except phone) are included in your rent.  And of course, no more yard work or unexpected home repair costs...just pick up the phone and call maintenance!

You can certainly continue to drive but they also provide transportation for those that don’t drive to make it convenient for doctor visits and various social outings.  Most communities offer housekeeping, a pharmacy, hair salon, gym and physical therapists and other specialized services that come a few days a week, should you choose to use them. You have your own place with your own keys and own lock and you come and go as you please without asking anyone for permission, although many communities like to know when you come and go as a security so they know you are okay.  Although not required to have a licensed nurse, most do have one on duty or on-call.  24 hour security provides peace of mind and knowing help is nearby if you ever need it provides comfort for you and your family.

Beyond assisted living is skilled care or what people have historically referred to as nursing homes or long-term care facilities. 99% of the time these communities are for people who need ongoing and around the clock medical supervision. They are not age restricted so you may have people of different age groups living in these communities, and they are typically not private. You may have people that come and go out of your room so your door may remain open during the day as opposed to a private suite or an apartment where you have privacy.  Skilled Nursing Facilities provide 24-hour continuous health care services as well as room and board. The health care services include basic and skilled nursing care, rehabilitation and a full range of other programs, treatments and therapies such as occupational therapy and physical therapy. Skilled nursing facilities also manage complex medical needs that require equipment, such as ventilators and IV lines.  They may also offer Memory Care.

These communities offer all levels of care on one campus. They have independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing. Also in today’s world most are including memory care for people who have some form of dementia or need a little closer supervision. Many CCRC's offer cottages or duplexes, in addition to apartments for Independent Living.  Oftentimes, CCRC’s require a sizable upfront investment. The benefit to those looking for such a community is that you are pre-paying today for your future health needs tomorrow. You typically start out at the independent level.  You get around well, however, as your health declines and you need more support you don’t have to move to another retirement community; you simply move to another part of the campus.  When you move into the CCRC and make an initial investment in that community it helps offset future costs of needing more care. CCRC's offer all the same amenities as described above for each type of senior living community, however each CCRC has its own contract and expenses and fees.  Many offer some sort of refund of your initial investment upon moving, or death, as well as a guarantee that should