People often use the phrase “Assisted Living” to describe any long-term residential care program. However, life plan communities such as Montereau may offer several distinct levels of care — Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing and Memory Care. Depending on which level you choose, services can range from help with personal care and housekeeping to 24-hour medical supervision. Some communities may also offer Independent Living options, where seniors can enjoy a maintenance-free retirement lifestyle with all the amenities they want.
So, while Assisted Living communities may be a great option for older adults who can no longer comfortably live on their own, it’s important to understand the differences between the available levels of care. In this post, we’ll explain the services provided at each level, so you can make an informed decision for yourself or a loved one.
Assisted Living
Traditional Assisted Living programs are designed for individuals who need help caring for themselves and their homes. While residents typically live in private apartments or rooms, they can get immediate help when they need it — often at the touch of a call button. Many residences also include safety features, such as roll-in showers and grab bars.
Most Assisted Living programs support a maintenance-free lifestyle, so staff are responsible for the cleaning and upkeep of your residence. Although the arrangements may vary by community, these programs often provide laundry services, transportation to medical appointments and up to three prepared meals each day. Residents may also benefit from on-site amenities, which may include fitness centers, swimming pools, theaters, salons and full-service restaurants. Most communities also sponsor enrichment activities, such as educational programs and off-site outings.
Caregivers employed by these programs may assist with personal care activities, such as bathing, dressing and medication management. Often, mobility assistance is available for individuals with physical limitations. The Villa Assisted Living at Montereau, and others like it, has nurses and certified nursing assistants who provide healthcare services and supervision around the clock.
Memory Care
Memory Care communities, such as the Abbey Memory Support neighborhood at Montereau, provide a safe, secure living space for individuals who have Alzheimer’s disease or other cognitive impairments. While these residential programs offer many of the same services you’ll find in Assisted Living, Memory Care communities tailor the environment to suit the needs of people living with memory loss. Often using natural light, soothing colors and simple floor plans, Memory Care neighborhoods are designed to reduce confusion, stimulate cognition and improve the overall quality of life for those who live there. Residents and their families are often encouraged to personalize an individual’s private living space with meaningful photographs, keepsakes and furnishings. Many communities also have controlled exits and secure outdoor spaces to prevent wandering.
Memory Care programs typically have lower staff-to-resident ratios than traditional Assisted Living communities. Moreover, caregivers are often specially trained to work with memory-impaired residents. Besides 24-hour supervision and assistance, Memory Care provides an additional level of support through memory-enhancing therapies and social activities that emphasize an individual’s interests and strengths. Some Memory Care neighborhoods, including Montereau’s, may also have special amenities, such as sensory gardens and music therapy programs.
Skilled Nursing
Skilled Nursing communities typically offer the highest level of services, with a focus on medical care. Because these programs are designed to support individuals with conditions requiring regular care and supervision, they typically staff nurses and other caregivers around the clock. Some communities, such as The Chateau Skilled Nursing neighborhood at Montereau, also offer rehabilitative services, including physical, occupational and speech/language therapies, making them ideal for someone recovering from a major illness, accident or surgery. Because of this, Skilled Nursing communities often permit short-term stays.
Depending on the program, residents in Skilled Nursing communities may be able to choose a private or shared room. These communities typically also have comfortable common areas, where individuals may relax and socialize with their neighbors, visit with family members or just kick back and watch TV.
Besides medical support, caregivers at Skilled Nursing communities may assist residents with everyday activities, such as bathing, eating and oral care. Because mobility may be difficult for individuals with serious medical conditions, many places schedule on-site visits with doctors and other healthcare practitioners.
Explore Assisted Living Options Near You
Maybe you’re considering a move to an Assisted Living community or exploring Skilled Nursing options for a loved one — or perhaps you just want to trade your high-upkeep house for a maintenance-free Independent Living apartment where you can comfortably age in place. Regardless of your needs, Montereau’s friendly, knowledgeable staff can help you make a decision you’ll be happy with. From our compassionate caregivers to our resort-style amenities, Montereau offers the lifestyle you deserve at all levels of care. To learn more about our community, schedule a tour today.