Understanding the Levels of Senior Housing
The terms 'independent living,' 'assisted living,' 'memory care,' and 'skilled nursing' describe very different levels of care and cost.
You're not the only Arizona family navigating this. Hundreds of caregivers and older adults swap real-world advice every week in our free Arizona senior community.
What to know
- 1
Independent living: apartment-style community with meals and social activities, no medical care included.
- 2
Assisted living: help with daily activities (bathing, dressing, medications) but not skilled nursing.
- 3
Memory care: specialized assisted living for dementia, with secured spaces and trained staff.
- 4
Skilled nursing (nursing home): 24/7 medical care for serious or complex conditions.
- 5
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) let residents move between levels on one campus.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between assisted living and a nursing home?+
Assisted living helps with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication reminders but does not provide skilled medical care. Nursing homes (skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care for serious or complex conditions.
When is memory care the right choice?+
Memory care is appropriate when a person with dementia begins wandering, has significant safety issues, or needs more structure than standard assisted living can safely provide.
Does Medicare pay for assisted living?+
No. Medicare does not cover the cost of assisted living or memory care. It may cover short-term skilled nursing rehab after a hospital stay. Long-term care is typically paid privately, through long-term care insurance, or through Medicaid for those who qualify.
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Marketing materials all look the same. A good tour answers questions the brochure won't.
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