Senior Living Resources

Independent living is an active-adult lifestyle. In an independent-living community, residents are capable of living without assistance (although the community can usually provide resources if certain services become necessary). Such communities typically provide meals and housekeeping as well as social and wellness activities.

Assisted living is designed for senior adults who require some help with the activities of daily living to maintain their optimal level of independence. It’s an ideal option when skilled care isn’t required – such as a nursing home – but a bit of help is needed for functions such as bathing, dressing, grooming, taking medication, mobility and the like.

Memory Care is a specialized environment, designed for helping those who struggle with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. Activities and programs help maximize remaining cognitive abilities, reduce anxiety and confusion, and increase peace of mind.

That’s a great question. You’ve probably had the opportunity to see your parents or other loved ones over a period of years. The aging process includes a natural slowing down, and you may see that certain day-to-day functions – such as bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and remembering to take medications – have become a challenge. At that point, you’ll find yourself questioning how viable it is for that person to live on his or her own, out of concern for their safety and well-being.

There are topics of conversation that can help you as you start a dialog that leads in that direction when the opportunities arise. Questions such as – Is your home still appropriate for your needs? Do you need help with household chores? Are you able to cook your favorite meals? Are you comfortable driving? Would you enjoy having transportation available at your door? Are you taking your medications correctly? These and similar questions can pave the way to consideration of a new – and better – lifestyle.

Many people will begin the process of seeking an appropriate retirement community by touring the community and talking with staff on behalf of their aging loved one. Then, having made the initial inquiries, they will draw their parents into the conversation.

Making the leap to senior living is a big decision, and we know that pricing is always a concern. We’re here to help.

Please ask how we can assist you with any financial considerations.

Yes! Please ask about our pet policy and restrictions, as well as our pet care packages.

Absolutely. Residents are welcome and encouraged to bring their own furniture, art, photos, etc., and to make their residence their home.

Yes. Please think of us at Aviva Senior Living as a family resource. Give us a call. We will likely have excellent guidance, or have a pretty good idea on where to direct you to get your questions answered. In the meantime, the Family Resource section includes the leading online organizations and resources.

An age-restricted community is often called “active-adult living.” Typically, the minimum age for most active-adult communities is 55. Designed for active adults, these communities are lifestyle focused, offering activities and socialization opportunities, but no healthcare.

Assisted-living communities typically provide services that allow the resident to maintain a degree of independence, while offering a helping hand with certain tasks such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and taking medications.

CCRCs are senior-living communities that provide a range of lifestyle options on one campus, from independent living, assisted living, to memory care, and, sometimes, skilled nursing. The purpose is to provide a continuum of care throughout one’s lifetime. These communities usually offer long-term contracts or written agreements, and a continuum of housing services and health care. Floor plans can range from individual cottages and duplexes to studio apartments.

Independent living is an active-adult lifestyle. In an independent-living community, residents are capable of living without assistance (although the community can usually provide resources if certain services become necessary). Such communities typically provide meals and housekeeping as well as social and wellness activities.

Long-term care insurance is a type of insurance developed specifically to cover the cost of skilled nursing, assisted living, home health care and other long-term care services. These services are usually not covered by traditional health insurance or Medicare.

The federal health insurance program called Medicare is designed for people who are 65 and older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease. Medicare Parts A, B, C and D cover specific services and care.

Financed by state and federal governments, Medicaid is the program of medical assistance designed for those unable to afford regular medical service—available to fund care in a skilled nursing setting.

A specialized type of elder care, memory care is tailored specifically for the needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other cognitive disorders.

Services designed to help an individual recover from an injury, operation, stroke, or illness. These may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and memory care. In most cases, services are planned to help the patient return as closely as possible to pre-challenge levels. The services may be residential (inpatient), or outpatient, and may be short- or long-term, depending on the needs of the patient.

“Retirement community” is a loosely applied term referring to any community dedicated to senior living. Encompassing many lifestyles, it can include rentals or for-sale communities. The term retirement simply implies “senior,” and is not restricted to retired people.

Skilled-nursing care communities offer around-the-clock nursing care, provided or supervised by licensed medical personnel.

AARP is a membership organization leading positive social change and delivering value to people age 50 and over through information, advocacy and service.

Administration on Aging provides home and community-based services to millions of older persons through the programs funded under the Older Americans Act.

Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

Arthritis Foundation provides members with specialist referrals, Arthritis Today magazine and updates on the newest research.

Caregiver.com offers support and guidance for family and professional caregivers through newsletters, online discussion, Today’s Caregiver magazine, chat rooms and more.

Caring Connections is a national consumer and community engagement initiative to improve care at the end of life, supported by a grant from The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

LeadingAge is focused on advocacy of effective services for seniors including home health, hospice, assisted living, continuing care and more.

Elder Law Answers supports seniors, their families and their attorneys in legal issues surrounding aging.

Family Caregiver Alliance addresses the needs of families and friends providing long-term care at home.

GovBenefits.gov is the official benefits site of the US Government with information on over 1,000 benefit and assistance programs.

Hospice Foundation of America exists to help those who cope personally or professionally with terminal illness, death, and the process of grief and bereavement.

International Council on Aging unifies organizations focused on older adults and provides education, information, resources, and tools.

National Council on Aging is a nonprofit organization with a national network of more than 14,000 organizations and leaders.

VA.gov explains U.S. Government Veterans Affairs benefits to assist eligible veterans and dependents with the expense of intermediate or skilled nursing care.