As we age, it can be essential to choose the right kind of care, especially when there are health concerns involved. Many people will wonder, “What is the difference between a retirement home and an elderly home?” At Rocky Mountain Assisted Living, we are here to answer that question. When looking at your options, it is important to understand the nuances and differences between all kinds of senior housing, including the services provided by our facilities.
If you hear the term “elderly home” or “retirement home,” you will likely immediately think of a nursing home. However, there are many differences between these living situations. Knowing these differences can enable you to choose the right environment for yourself or a loved one. Once you understand what your options entail, you can find the perfect fit.
At Rocky Mountain Assisted Living, our Denver retirement homes offer a wide range of senior living options. Let us answer your questions and evaluate which options are right for you.
The Differences Between a Retirement Home and an Elderly Home in Denver
Denver is a thriving city, rich with options for seniors who are considering life after retirement. Whether you have been a Denver resident all your life or are thinking of relocating here, thanks to the gorgeous mountain views and fresh air the city has to offer, it is important to know the differences between a retirement home and an elderly home. These can include:
The Level of Care You Receive
In most cases, an elderly home, such as an assisted living home, will offer a higher level of medical care than retirement communities. Elderly homes often employ registered nurses, nursing assistants, or other professionals who can offer the necessary care to promote your overall well-being and health. Most elderly homes offer regular check-ins by medical staff to make sure you are receiving the support you need.
In elderly homes, when you suffer certain health conditions, such as those affecting your memory or certain bodily functions, you can gain access to 24/7 care to meet your needs. Typically, a retirement home will not provide this same level of medical service, as these homes strive to allow seniors to live a more independent and active lifestyle. Understanding your level of health can help you make the right decision for your care.
The Staff
While retirement homes may not be staffed with medical professionals around the clock, like many elderly homes or assisted living facilities are, they do employ security staff. They can be contacted at any point throughout the day and night to give you access to emergency or medical services should the need arise.
Knowing your unique needs can enable you to choose which environment is right for you.
The Costs Involved
Typically, the higher the level of care, the more expensive the living facility. When comparing elderly homes or assisted living environments, the price will be higher than the costs charged by retirement homes. These costs can also be based on location.
However, retirement communities can start at a much lower rate, depending on where the home is located and the services the community provides to its residents.
The Services Provided
Elderly homes are designed to offer more support than retirement homes and, therefore, come with more services or amenities. Staff members at elderly homes can help residents with tasks such as meal prep, shopping, cleaning, grooming, or bathing. They usually provide residents with three meals a day and several housekeeping services.
Retirement communities, however, are more ideal for individuals with lower health needs. They typically offer the convenience of on-site dining and entertainment, but they also have the option of taking care of their own cooking, should they so desire.
What Is the Right Choice for You?
If you are an individual with higher medical needs, such as being unable to complete a lot of daily tasks on your own, an elderly home might be the right choice for you. However, if you have relatively minimal medical needs and want a larger sense of independence, a retirement community might be a better fit for you.
FAQs
Q: What Are Some Questions to Ask Yourself When Deciding Between an Elderly Home and a Retirement Home?
A: When you are trying to decide between an elderly home or a retirement home, there are several questions you need to ask yourself or a loved one. If you answer yes to any of these, an environment with a higher level of care might be right for you. Such questions include:
- Do I have a terminal illness, such as cancer?
- Do I need assistance with daily tasks?
- Am I worried about my own health and safety?
Q: What Are the Disadvantages of Living in a Retirement Home?
A: Depending on your health or special care needs, a retirement home may not offer the correct level of medical services. This can be one disadvantage. Other disadvantages might include a shift or reduction in privacy, higher costs than living at home, and a decrease in familiarity with your surroundings.
Q: What Age Is Right for Moving Into a Retirement Home?
A: There is no perfect age for moving into a retirement home. Instead, your need will be based on your current medical or health status, along with how much you can be in charge of your own home and personal maintenance. In a retirement home, you have quicker access to certain health services and do not need to worry about house upkeep. The right time for you may be quite different from another individual your age.
Q: How Do I Know When Someone Needs Elderly Care?
A: Several prevalent signs can indicate a need for elderly care, like an assisted living facility. One of the most obvious signs will be an individual’s inability to manage certain daily tasks, such as bathing, grooming, or getting dressed. When an individual begins to struggle with meeting their own needs, an elderly care environment may become necessary.
Learn More About Transitioning Into Retirement or Senior Care With Rocky Mountain Assisted Living
Making the move to a retirement home or elderly home can be a daunting and overwhelming thought. At Rocky Mountain Assisted Living, we can make the transition as easy as possible and help you determine which living environment is right for you. Reach out to us today to learn more about our senior care services.