Independent Living
The term “independent living” can be confusing. When it comes to seniors, it can mean several things.
When searching for just the right San Diego County independent living community, here are some questions to ask yourself or your loved one:
Would you like to have meals provided?
Would you like to have transportation provided?
Would you like to have social activities provided?
Would you like to have your building licensed for care if and when you need it?
The answers to these questions will give you direction. And we can narrow your community selections when we speak or meet.
Rental Senior Community
If you answered yes to the four questions above, you are looking for a full service senior community. Here you will lease your apartment or unit and that rate will include all the amenities.
Many seniors who live here will be receiving some assistance from the care staff. But many will not, as they are still able to care for themselves.
The advantage is, if and when you need some help, you don’t have to move again. And yes, this building can also be referred to as assisted living.
Senior Apartments
Throughout the county of San Diego, there are hundreds of rental apartment complexes for those 55 years of age or older. And these will be your most affordable independent living option.
However, in 55 plus apartments there are no (or very few) amenities provided, and no care. In a senior apartment residents still do their own shopping, meal preparation, and housekeeping.
And a senior here will most likely still be driving, as transportation is rarely provided.
Continuing Care Retirement Community
A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) or Life Care Community is another category of San Diego County independent living.
There are several CCRCs in San Diego County, most requiring an upfront financial investment.
A CCRC provides different levels of living and care in different areas of their campus. Most of the community is independent living where seniors can take advantage of lots of activities and amenities, and where there is no care staff.
CCRCs also have assisted living and skilled nursing on the same campus.
A CCRC is a good choice for those who still independent, have the finances to afford to move there, and who are planning for the future.
Lise of Elder Answers and her mom.