When it comes to the detailed search for senior living options for you or a loved one, there are a number of factors to consider. From the types of amenities and services you’re looking for to residential preferences to the lifestyle that best fits your interest and so much more, it’s an important decision that takes time and research. One key aspect that will help guide your decision is knowing the difference between independent living and assisted living.

The major difference between the two is all about an individual’s ability to manage daily activities without any extra assistance, which affects housing and care options. Let’s explore more.

What Is Independent Living?

Independent living is ideal for active seniors, generally 55 and older, who do not need assistance with daily activities, yet enjoy and appreciate the benefits of assistance with routine tasks such as housekeeping, lawn care, dining options, etc. This maintenance-free lifestyle supports their independence with private apartments or homes in a community that encourages an active lifestyle with access to amenities, activities, and services that foster connection, engagement, camaraderie, and more.

What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living is designed to encourage as much independence as possible for aging seniors while providing housing, services, and care for individuals who need assistance with daily activities such as dressing, grooming, cooking, medication management, etc. Aging adults who also enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle and engaging social activities benefit from amenities and services that support a thriving lifestyle — all with access to routine assistance and care as needed for daily living.

What Is a Continuum of Care?

A continuum of care is the benefit and convenience of living in one place that provides access to levels of care needed for various health and lifestyle needs. Also known as a Life Plan Community, residents are afforded a continuum of care and comfort knowing that if their health needs ever change, services are available to accommodate levels of care all within one community — independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing and rehabilitation, and memory care.

The BRH Difference

Baptist Retirement Homes has four locations throughout North Carolina to best serve your senior living needs — two Life Plan Communities offering the full continuum of care, one community offering assisted living and skilled nursing, and a free-standing assisted living community. 

One of the major benefits of being part of the Baptist Retirement Homes family is the security of lifetime care, including the promise that if a resident’s life expectancy surpasses their financial resources, we will continue to care for them for the remainder of their lives. Contact us online or call (336) 725-0202 to learn more about our communities, and our trusting legacy of providing care for aging adults since 1951.