Senior Living Options

SUMMARY OF SENIOR LIVING OPTIONS*

"A Seniors Resource Guide" (The Seniors Blue Book Publication) is a valuable resource for ALL seniors in the Denver area. Especially for those considering senior living options, it is a great starting point. Available at most area senior centers, it provides for numerous Denver geographic areas a list of facilities, amenities, and prices in an easily comparable form. Also included are articles, websites and other resources. It is available by mail for about $2 by calling (303) 393-1971.

Here are some of the senior living options:

AGE-IN-PLACE -- or stay in your own home. Modifications over the years may be necessary. There are numerous websites, organizations, and remodeling firms specifically designed to provide assistance.    See TLC's "Stay or Go" and "Possible Age-In-Place Modifications" to assist in your decision.

ATLERNATIVE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES -- Various types of housing for a group with common interests, such as professional associations, religion, sexual orientation, or any number of other common denominators.   (New concept)

ALZHEIMER/DEMENTIA -- Licensed facilities specializing in delivering care in a secure facility.   Bedroom rental units with common areas for dining and activities. Staff is usually specially trained. Amenities, rates and, nursing services vary.

ASSISTED LIVING -- Communities designed for those who feel they cannot safety live on their own but require a minimal level of care and assistance. Staff are on duty 24 hours. Housekeeping and meals are available in addition to a small kitchen in each private unit. Social activities and transportation available in most communities.



ASSISTED LIVING PRIVATE HOMES -- Provide a more home-like   environment via private homes in residential settings with a small number of residents in private or semi-private rooms. Care is provided by live-in staff. Amenities and nursing services vary widely. (Also called personal board and care homes, adult family homes, group homes and adult foster care (commonly found in small towns)

CO-HOUSING -- A relatively new concept with many variations: usually individual homes or condos with common areas for meal preparation, recreation, etc.    There are some inter-generational co-housing communities.

CCRC/LIFE CARE -- Continuing Care Retirement Communities offer a campus-style environment with a combination of apartments, townhouses/condos. Facilities available for independent living sections, assisted living sections, and skilled nursing units. Care throughout life is an available, negotiable option, with varying arrangements.

DAY CARE -- Many facilities provide day/night services on a short- or long-term basis. Usually provided is a place to rest, one to two meals, snacks and activities for the day.

RESPITE CARE -- Short-term stay in a community to provide a temporary break to the caregivers for a week to a month. Facilities are designed to meet many different needs.

RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES -- Rentals: Designed specifically for over-55 group. in individual studio, one- or two-bedroom complexes. Rates based upon size. Meal plans, housekeeping, laundry and maintenance are options. Amenities are usually varied, including golf courses, recreation centers, and club houses. Numerous planned activities for the community are available, including games nights, potlucks, book clubs, etc., etc.

RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES -- Purchase: Same as above, but may be single-family homes available for purchase, with maintenance included in homeowner fees.

* Note: As a summary this is not all inclusive. Facilities vary widely. See TLC's "Checklist for Finding a Home" for some suggested questions as you consider otpions.

Source: A Seniors Resource Guide, The Seniors Blue Book for Denver

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