Posted in Triplett & Carothers on April 30, 2026

If you are just beginning the research process, your work will be to find out as much information as possible to make sure you are making the right decision. As a starting point, here are some basics to help you understand the differences among each of the living situations:

Independent living communities

• This option is best for active seniors who do not require any assistance with completing daily life activities and also enjoy living in a community with people their own age. This environment offers a maintenance-free lifestyle with an active social life and a variety of stimulating on-site activities.
• These communities are typically made up of fully equipped apartments or separate small-scale homes. Some communities are more luxurious than others and can boast a fitness center, a swimming pool, a clubhouse, a spa, restaurants and sometimes a golf course. The cost of living in these communities will depend on the amenities offered; however, you should know that this is a self-paying option not covered by Medicare or Medicaid. As you might expect, the price tag can be very high, with average fees at around $3,000 and soaring all the way to over $6,000 each month.
• Security is provided 24/7 with at least one staff member who can respond to emergencies.

Assisted living facilities

• Seniors who require assistance with no more than two daily living activities such as bathing, housekeeping, meal preparation or laundry will be most comfortable in this situation. Those in assisted living do not require 24/7 medical care like a nursing home provides; however, there are usually staff available around the clock to handle medical emergencies and nurses available during the day to coordinate with medication management or outside medical providers.
• Living situations usually include a private or semiprivate apartment, utilities, three meals a day, amenities and activities. Residents also benefit from having on-site staff who can help with housekeeping, laundry and transportation. Any additional medical care will probably incur an additional fee. Check to see whether your senior’s assisted living care is covered by either long-term care insurance or Medicaid waivers. Otherwise, this level of care is primarily self-pay.
• Residents who feel unsure or lonely about living on their own or are finding it stressful to complete daily activities might thrive in an assisted living environment.

Nursing homes

• These are licensed skilled nursing facilities designed to meet the needs of those who need extensive medical care and supervision. Residents are monitored for chronic diseases, disabilities or serious medical conditions. Staff include registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and certified nursing assistants. Residents here can receive skilled nursing care, rehabilitation and medical treatments all under one roof.
• Residents share semi-private rooms that may be furnished with medical equipment. Social interaction may be more limited here depending on the limitations of their medical conditions.
• This is the costliest option due to the level of medical care each resident requires. Medicare will sometimes cover short-term rehabilitation stays, and Medicaid will cover expenses for eligible individuals.

One last bit of advice is to consider what living alternative is best for your loved one before it becomes a necessity and a thoughtfully made decision is no longer an option.

Reach out to Roz Carothers and her team at Triplett & Carothers to learn more.

©2026