You or a beloved family member might be looking into senior living at a low cost, or you might be searching for an option that offers a low-maintenance lifestyle. Adapting to living in a senior housing complex may be right for you. However, many will ask themselves, “What is a senior housing complex?” At Rocky Mountain Assisted Living, we are here to answer that question. In most cases, a senior living complex will be designed to meet residents’ needs and offer comfort as we age.
Senior housing complexes, such as apartments, townhouses, or condos, are gaining popularity across the nation as the baby boomer generation reaches their golden years. These complexes are usually designed with the unique needs and desires of elderly residents in mind. They may include perks such as housekeeping or laundry services, close-by fitness centers, salons, and other similar amenities on-site.
Rocky Mountain Assisted Living can help you or your loved one determine if a senior housing complex is right for you.
Defining Senior Housing Complexes
In Denver, senior housing complexes can be an ideal living environment for aging people who are looking to downsize. They can also benefit those who may no longer be capable of managing their own home but still wish to retain their personal independence. These complexes are typically built to foster community between residents and allow them access to amenities, such as a library, chapel, gym, or activity center.
There are several aspects of many senior housing complexes, including the following:
- Included utilities. In certain senior housing complexes, all utilities may be covered. This can assist with fluctuating bills, especially during the colder months. These bills may be worked into your monthly rent, rather than having to deal with them as they arise. Utilities that are typically included are gas, water, and electricity. Senior residents will, in most situations, have to pay for their own cable, internet, or phone access.
- Washer and dryer access. Depending on the level of independence at your senior housing complex, you may have a washer and dryer unit installed in your apartment. This is a great situation for those who wish to maintain a certain level of independence. However, some senior housing complexes come with laundry services.
- Kitchen access. If you would still like to cook your own meals, many senior housing complexes have small kitchens or kitchenettes. These allow residents to maintain some personal independence.
- Outdoor space. Some senior housing complexes offer residents private patios or balconies to take in the beautiful Denver landscape. You can enjoy the fresh, clean mountain air of a summer morning or watch the sunset from the comfort of your home. Most complexes have courtyards, landscaped to meet the needs of residents. These allow people to enjoy a hot cup of coffee or tea outdoors with neighbors or loved ones.
- Other amenities. Sometimes, senior housing complexes host activities to keep residents engaged with one another and their community. These can include cooking clubs, happy hours, and group games. These communities may also offer transportation to doctor appointments or shopping malls.
The Pros and Cons of Senior Housing Complexes
As with anything in this world, there are both pros and cons to senior housing complexes. The benefits can include:
- Living in a home where you do not need to worry about maintenance or upkeep. This means you no longer need to worry about leaf removal, snow shoveling, or what needs to be done when a faucet breaks.
- Senior housing complexes come with built-in security systems, such as cameras, patrolled grounds, and systems for emergency alerts. This provides residents with an added layer of safety and comfort.
- You can have access to several amenities on hand, including salons, walking trails, gyms, and barbecue areas.
There are also certain drawbacks to senior housing complexes. These can include:
- Meals typically are not provided, and you will most likely be in charge of making your own food and shopping for your own groceries.
- There is usually no on-site medical care, but the staff may offer transportation to your medical appointments.
FAQs
Q: How Much Does Senior Housing Cost?
A: When looking at the costs of senior housing, you may find that the monthly expenses are less than those involved with other elderly living environments. However, these complexes typically offer a lesser number of services or amenities than a retirement community or nursing home. Each can be a crucial factor when determining which option is right for you.
Q: What Is the Difference Between a Nursing Home and a Senior Housing Complex?
A: The main difference between a nursing home and a senior housing complex is that a nursing home will offer more services, such as on-site healthcare, meal services, and assistance with daily tasks, such as eating, grooming, bathing, laundry, or getting dressed. Nursing homes are typically reserved for those who can no longer take care of themselves on their own.
Q: What Are the Usual Features of a Senior Living Apartment?
A: Most senior living apartments work to provide residents with the services necessary to live a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle. In most of these complexes, you can find the following:
- Apartment climate control
- Privacy window treatments, such as blinds, curtains, or tints
- Locked mailboxes
- Call buttons
- Emergency alert and response systems
Q: Who Is a Senior Housing Complex Right For?
A: Keep in mind that senior housing complexes are not nursing homes, and they are not only for individuals who are retired. In fact, some residents may be at the peak of their careers. These complexes can be perfect for individuals who are empty nesters, wanting to travel and not have a home to worry about, or hoping to relocate closer to loved ones.
Rocky Mountain Assisted Living Can Help You Decide on the Right Environment for Senior Living
If you or a loved one is wondering if a senior housing complex or another senior living environment is right for you, the team at Rocky Mountain Assisted Living can help. We can offer you the knowledge and advice necessary to make the right decision to fit your unique needs.
As we get older, our physical condition can change, but our hope to maintain our personal lives, comforts, and access to favorite activities won’t. Reach out to our offices today to learn more.