As our loved one's age, it's natural to start thinking about their long-term care. For many of us, that means considering a move to a senior living community. Making the decision to leave the family home can be difficult, but it's important to remember that senior living communities offer residents a safe, supportive and comfortable environment.

If you're considering a move for your loved one or yourself, this guide will provide a snapshot of what to expect from a senior living community. We'll introduce you to the different types of communities and discuss their features, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each.

Perks of Senior Living Facilities

Despite what some people believe, there’s actually a lot of perks and benefits to trying out senior living facilities. Some of these include: 

• Tailored Care - One of the best benefits of senior living is that the care is tailored specifically to the needs of seniors. The staff is trained to handle the unique needs of older adults, and they are able to provide the level of care that is right for each individual. The design of the housing is toiled for them as well. 
• Variety of Amenities - Amenities in a senior living facility can include but are not limited to on-site medical care, daily activities and outings, three meals per day, housekeeping and laundry services, and more. And this means that seniors can stay as autonomous as they would like while still enjoying their lives.
• Sense of Community - Senior living communities offer seniors a sense of community. Not only do they have access to the various amenities and services available in the community, but also the other residents provide a sense of support and friendship. The sense of community can be extremely beneficial for those who may feel lonely or isolated in their home setting.

Types of Senior Living Options

There are a variety of different types of senior living options available, and the best choice for each individual will depend on a person's specific needs and preferences. Here are some of the common options: 

1. Independent living communities - Independent living communities are designed for seniors who can live independently but may appreciate having access to shared amenities and occasional professional help. These communities usually offer a variety of housing options, from apartments to single-family homes, and residents typically share common grounds such as a pool.
2. Assisted living facilities - Assisted living facilities are designed for seniors who need help with day-to-day tasks but can remain relatively self-sufficient. These facilities usually offer a variety of services, including housekeeping, personal care, and assistance with activities of daily living.
3. Skilled nursing homes - Skilled nursing homes are often the last resort for elderly patients who no longer have the ability to live independently. These facilities provide 24-hour care and offer more comprehensive services than assisted living facilities, including full-time nursing staff and room and board.

Costs of Senior Living

The costs of senior living can vary greatly depending on the location, type of housing, and level of care required. In general, senior living costs can be broken down into three main categories: housing, health care, and other needs.

Housing costs can vary depending on the type of housing. For example, those who live in independent living communities may only pay for food and utilities, while those who live in assisted living facilities may have additional costs such as transportation and health care.

Health care costs can be quite high, especially if a senior needs full-time nursing care. Medicare doesn't always cover all of the costs of senior health care, so many seniors may rely on insurance to cover these costs.

Other needs can include things like groceries and utility bills. Budgeting for these expenses can be challenging, but it's important to keep in mind that not all seniors need the same level of care. Some may only need assistance with basic needs, while others may require more intensive care.

A senior living facility provides many benefits that make it the perfect choice for those looking for a way to maintain their independence while receiving high-quality care. If you are aging and want to maintain your sense of community, a senior living facility is the perfect solution.