Retirement Homes vs. Independent Living for Seniors
As we approach the golden years of our lives, the question of where and how to spend our retirement becomes increasingly essential. Whether you are considering options for yourself or a loved one, choosing between retirement homes and independent living facilities can be both pivotal and complex.
This blog reveals the nuances that differentiate these two senior living options. Whether you seek an active, independent lifestyle or require additional care and support, we aim to guide you in understanding the differences between retirement homes and independent living facilities.
Senior Retirement Homes
Retirement homes, also referred to as assisted living facilities or senior living communities, are designed for seniors who need a higher level of assistance but are still self-sufficient. Retirement homes differ from nursing homes, which offer 24/7 care, but provide more care and assistance than independent living homes. Retirement homes can also be more expensive than independent living, and typically, residents cannot opt out of specific programs to help reduce the price.
Retirement homes often offer things such as:
- Dining services
- Medication delivery
- On-site or traveling nurse assistance
- Housekeeping and maintenance
- Social programs and events
- Fitness and wellness programs
- Transportation
- Common areas for socializing
- On-site security and staff
- Assistance with coordinating care
- And more depending on the location
Independent Senior Living Facilities
Independent living facilities are designed to make aging a more comfortable and easy experience, aiming to assist seniors as they age in the comforts of their own space. Independent living for seniors is also often referred to as Supportive, Retirement, or Congregate Living. Residents in independent living communities are not yet in need of additional care or on-site nursing staff but enjoy a community feel with other seniors. Residents of independent senior living are fully functionally independent individuals, operating day-to-day life autonomously. A main perk is that independent living is often more cost-friendly and affordable than a retirement home or nursing home.
While you or your parents might not need around-the-clock care, some conveniences could make a massive difference to their daily lives. Some of the conveniences included in independent living centers are:
- Dining services
- Housekeeping and maintenance
- Monitoring and emergency support
- Social programs and events
- Transportation
- Common areas for socializing
- Building amenities
The goal of independent senior living for retirees is to aid them in ‘aging in place.’ Just because we are aging does not mean we need to become displaced from the comforts of home. We at Boardwalk take this seriously, launching the Boardwalk Retirement Centers with the primary goal of helping provide comfort, convenience, and community to all of our residents.
Boardwalk Retirement Community for Independent Seniors
Boardwalk offers an affordable living solution for aging Canadians. Our retirement community is designed specifically for independent senior living for those looking for an affordable way to age in the comfort of their own space. Anyone over 55 is eligible to become a part of our retirement centers and take advantage of the conveniences that come along with it. The Boardwalk Retirement Communities offer the following:
Living:
- Spacious suites
- Private balconies
- 5% Veteran discount
- Water, heat, and power included
- Pet-friendly
- Visitors welcome any time
Services:
- Dining services - Lunch and dinner
- Pharmacy deliveries
- Weekly housekeeping and linen services
- Social activities and holiday events (transportation included)
- On-site Boardwalk Retirement Center associates
- On-site Boardwalk Retirement Center maintenance
Amenities:
- Renovated communal social areas
- Wellness and leisure facilities (fitness centers, etc.)
- Parking stall and storage for a minimal fee
Our Boardwalk Retirement Community currently operates in Edmonton, Calgary, and Quebec City. If you are interested in any of our current locations, want more information, or want to inquire about future Boardwalk Retirement Communities, don't hesitate to get in touch with us!