Differences Between Levels of Care in a Senior Living Community

When it comes to choosing a senior living community, understanding the various levels of care available is an essential part of making an informed decision. From Independent Living to Assisted Living to Memory Care to Skilled Nursing, each level caters to specific needs and lifestyles, offering distinct advantages and services.

It's important to remember not all communities offer the same levels of care. At Aberdeen Heights, we provide a variety of care options to ensure our residents receive the right support as they age. Let's explore some of the common levels of senior care to help you decide which option may be best for yourself or a loved one.

Senior Living Communities vs. CCRCs

As you embark on your search for senior care, you may be wondering what the different is between senior living communities and Continuing Care Retirement Communities, commonly known as CCRCs. Traditional senior living communities often focus on specific types of care, allowing residents to choose the level that suits their current needs. These communities may offer one or two levels of care, but they typically don't have the same comprehensive care structure found in CCRCs.

In contrast, CCRCs provide a continuum of care within a single community, accommodating seniors as their needs change over time. This means residents can transition seamlessly from Independent Living to Assisted Living or even Skilled Nursing without having to move to a different community. As a result, Continuing Care Retirement Communities, like Aberdeen Heights, offer the peace of mind that comes with knowing a full range of care and services is available if needed.

Independent Living

Independent Living is ideal for seniors who are generally healthy and active and are seeking a maintenance-free lifestyle. Residents in Independent Living enjoy their own private apartments or homes, complete with full kitchenettes, access to community amenities and full control over their daily routines. Overall, Independent Living empowers seniors to maintain their independence while providing them with tailored support and social engagement.

Some highlights of our Independent Living program at Aberdeen Heights include:

• Social engagement: Residents have daily opportunities to connect with their neighbors and peers through organized social events, fitness classes and other recreational activities.
• Maintenance-free living: With housekeeping, laundry and maintenance services included, residents can enjoy their time without worrying about day-to-day chores.
• Dining options: Our community features daily dining options, with both a full-service restaurant-style dining room and a casual cafe. From continental breakfasts to three-course dinners to Sunday brunches, residents can enjoy delicious meals without the hassle of cooking.

Assisted Living

Assisted Living is designed for seniors who may need help with daily activities but still want to maintain a degree of independence. This level of care is ideal for those who require assistance with tasks such as bathing, dressing, medication management and mobility. It also provides an ease of living, with chores such as housekeeping, laundry and meal preparation all taken care of.

Key features of Assisted Living at Aberdeen Heights include:

• Personalized care plans: Each resident receives an individualized care plan tailored to their specific needs. This ensures they receive the right level of support while respecting their autonomy.
• 24/7 staffing: Trained staff members are available around the clock to provide assistance and respond to emergencies. This provides peace of mind, knowing that help is never far away.
• Social activities: Assisted Living residents enjoy a vibrant lifestyle filled with social events, outings and wellness programs. This helps foster a sense of community and belonging. Popular favorites at Aberdeen Heights include our Art is Ageless and Just Ask Lifelong Learning programs.

Memory Care

Memory Care is a specialized type of care for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease, dementia or other cognitive impairments. Its focus is on creating a safe and supportive environment that caters to the unique daily challenges of coping with memory loss, allowing seniors to maintain their dignity and quality of life.

At Aberdeen Heights, our dedicated Memory Care neighborhood in The Glen offers:

• Structured environment: Our Memory Care neighborhood is designed to minimize confusion and anxiety. It features a secure and familiar setting with gentle decor, easy-to-navigate interior and enclosed outdoor spaces that promote free and safe movement.
• Specialized staff training: Caregivers are specially trained in the complexities of memory-related conditions. All of our Memory Care team members receive ongoing education and training to stay current in the methods of caring for residents with memory loss so they can provide compassionate and effective support.
• Engaging activities:  To promote holistic well-being, our Memory Care program includes a range of therapeutic activities that engage the mind, body and spirit. From gardening and art projects to our certified Music and Memory program, our daily offerings help promote engagement and a sense of accomplishment among our residents.

Skilled Nursing

Skilled Nursing is for individuals requiring more intensive medical care or rehabilitation services. This type of care is provided by licensed nursing professionals and typically caters to individuals recovering from surgery, illness or injury, as well as those with chronic health conditions.

Features of our Skilled Nursing program at Aberdeen Heights include:

• Comprehensive medical care: Skilled Nursing offers around-the-clock medical support, including nursing care, medication management and therapies. All services are provided by certified medical professionals.
• Rehabilitation services: Physical, occupational and speech therapy are available on site to help seniors regain their independence and improve their quality of life.
• Personalized care plans: Residents in Skilled Nursing receive tailored care plans that focus on their unique health needs and recovery goals. This can range from specialized therapies and medical care to help with daily living tasks and meal preparation.

Short-Term Rehabilitation

Short-Term Rehabilitation is designed for seniors who require temporary care following a hospital stay or surgery. This care helps individuals regain their strength and independence in a focused, supportive environment.

Our Post-Acute to Home (PATH) program at Aberdeen Heights features:

• Intensive therapy services: Residents receive personalized therapy to address their recovery goals. This may include physical therapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy.
• Collaborative care: A team of health care professionals works together to create and implement a comprehensive recovery plan.
• Comfortable accommodations: Our PATH residents enjoy private or semiprivate accommodations designed to promote healing and comfort during their stay. They also have access to all facility amenities and activities.

Find the Support You Need at Aberdeen Heights

At Aberdeen Heights, our mission is rooted in compassionate services and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our residents. From Independent Living to Assisted Living, Memory Care and more, we strive to provide an environment where seniors can thrive, no matter their level of need.

Contact us today at 314-909-6000 to learn more about Aberdeen Heights and the levels of care we offer!

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