Senior Housing Definitions

Senior Housing Definitions

As you age, you’ll experience various challenges that you’ll need to adapt to. Chores that used to be easy may become more burdensome, and it may be more difficult for you to meet your daily needs. Consider senior housing if you or a loved one needs physical and medical support to adapt to these changes.

Everyone's needs for daily life as a senior are different, which makes it crucial to differentiate between the various types of senior living facilities. Read below for more information and contact Allyson Senior Solutions for senior care in Elk Grove, CA, and much more.

Independent Living

Independent living communities, also known as retirement homes, are aimed at older adults who don't need intensive medical care but still want to get away from homeownership. The community offers social activities, concierge services, and three daily meals. This type of facility is similar to a condominium or apartment building but offers light support for a senior's daily living needs.

Assisted Living

Assisted living offers a higher level of care with a measure of independent living. Residents have private rooms but receive more physical and medical assistance from staff than in an independent living facility. This facility is staffed by medical professionals including certified nursing assistants and registered nurses/licensed practical nurses who monitor medication intake and health issues. Physical assistance is provided for residents who need help. Community activities and meals are also offered. 


Assisted living facilities are licensed through the Department of Social Services as Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly, or RCFEs. You can count on Allyson Senior Solutions for assisted living in the Sacramento area and surrounding communities.

Memory Care

Memory care is a type of RCFE for people who have Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. The facility offers full-service care and is staffed by medical professionals trained to care for people with dementia. Residents are treated according to their type and severity of dementia, with activities and meals provided to maintain their quality of life. A memory care facility engages in preventative measures to keep residents safe and locks its doors to prevent them from wandering outside.

Continuing Care Retirement Community

A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) is similar to an independent living facility but offers services that scale from independent living to skilled nursing care. The building includes onsite medical care, which includes medical facilities and in-home nursing care. Residents can move to different types of units as their medical and assistive needs change. In the state of California, all CCRCs are required to also be licensed as an RCFE.

How to Find the Senior Housing That's Right for You

Finding senior housing that fits your needs can be a challenge, especially when you're not sure what level of care you're going to need. At Allyson Senior Solutions, we're here to help you find a facility that covers all of your needs to live your best life in your later years. Get in touch with us today to learn more about us and how we can support you through your senior living transition.

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