Senior Living Source

Americans crave independence. If given the choice, most of us would choose to grow old in our own homes. We value sleeping in our own beds, sitting on our own porches and cooking in our own kitchens. We want to live on our terms. By our own rules. However, that's not what happens as we get older. Our once-sturdy bodies become fragile, our reactions slow and our energy subsides. Simple things that were once easy suddenly become more difficult. As much as we want to keep living on our own, sometimes it's just not possible.

Senior housing is the answer when people can no longer care for themselves. There are several types of senior housing, and each type accommodates seniors with different physical or medical needs. Seniors who can mostly take care of themselves can reside in independent living centers, while those who need slightly more care and monitoring may be better off in assisted living communities. Nursing homes are available for seniors who regularly require nursing care; some nursing homes contain special wings designed for people with Alzheimer's or dementia. There are also continuous care communities, where seniors can spend the rest of their lives with all of the care they need.

With so many types of senior housing, and with so many of each type to choose from, finding the best senior housing can be difficult. After consulting a doctor, the first step in finding the best senior housing -- whether you're looking for yourself or for a loved one -- is to educate yourself on what's out there. Start by learning about senior housing in your area, which can be quickly accomplished by filling out the short form on this site. Once you get in contact with different housing centers, find out what each one has to offer. Find out how many employees each housing center has, and whether each has plans for expanding facilities or adding programs. Schedule tours at different housing centers and drop by unannounced; visiting during lunch or dinner is a great way to see staff members and residents interacting. Also, consider the center's location and visiting hours. How far is it from the prospective resident's home? Can friends and family visit easily?

Just because someone enters a senior housing community doesn't mean that person has to sacrifice his or her independence. The best senior housing facility will meet the medical, physical and emotional needs of its residents while also allowing them to retain who they are. That's part of the reason senior housing communities provide cocktail hours, field trips, reading groups and other social events -- so residents can remain independent however possible while still having their needs met.