Tips for Choosing Between Independent Living and Assisted Living
Choosing the right senior living option is a momentous decision that involves carefully considering an individual's needs and preferences. Columbine Health Systems offers a full range of living facilities in Northern Colorado. Its continuum of care includes independent living and assisted living options. Below are some valuable insights to help families make informed decisions in finding the most appropriate new home for their loved ones.
Independent Living: A Community of Freedom and Security
Columbine Health Systems' four Independent Living facilities in Northern Colorado cater to seniors who value autonomy but seek the security and conveniences of community living. These communities provide a vibrant lifestyle complete with recreational, educational, and social activities. For those capable of living on their own, Independent Living in The Windsor in Windsor, The Wexford in Loveland, and The Winslow and The Worthington offer a sense of community and camaraderie.
Key Features of Columbine Health Systems' Independent Living
Lifestyle Enrichment: Engage in a dynamic range of recreational and social activities tailored for seniors.
Free Transportation: Convenient and complimentary transportation services for residents.
Pharmacy Services: Access to on-site pharmacy services for medication needs.
Meal Service: Enjoy three meals a day, including full-service chef-prepared lunches and dinners, a delightful breakfast buffet, six guest meal credits a month to invite friends and family, access to a private dining room for family gatherings and private parties, a fully equipped kitchen in the activity room, and a complimentary 24/7 beverage bar.
Housekeeping Services: Professional staff cleans each apartment, launders linens and towels, changes bed linens and makes the bed weekly, replaces light bulbs, provides recycling services, and handles trash disposal.
Personal Laundry Services: Laundry rooms with folding counters, washers, and dryers are on each floor.
Emergency Services: Benefit from comprehensive emergency services, including 24-hour maintenance staff, emergency pull-cords in each apartment's bedrooms and bathrooms, round-the-clock staffing with a team member available every day, including holidays, security cameras installed at all doors and monitored by the front desk staff, and nightly patrols by a dedicated security company across the entire campus.
Assisted Living: A Holistic Approach to Well-Being
Columbine Health Systems recognizes that Assisted Living is about more than just providing a helping hand – it's about promoting overall well-being and independence through a person-centered approach to aging. With three Assisted Living centers in Northern Colorado, including Columbine Commons in Windsor, New Mercer Commons in Fort Collins, and Lakeview Commons in Loveland with specialized memory care, residents receive 24-hour care and support.
Key Features of Columbine Health Systems' Assisted Living:
Facility Features:
Choose from a variety of apartments, each equipped with an emergency call system and bathroom.
Enjoy amenities like cable TV, wireless internet, a fitness center, and scenic outdoor spaces.
Dedicated secure memory care services.Â
Access additional services, including medication management, housekeeping, transportation, and optional medical care.
Engaging Activities:
Participate in fitness programs, social events, and educational/cultural/spiritual activities.
Enjoy outings and special events, including scenic van rides and pet therapy.
Tailored activities are available for dementia residents, promoting overall well-being and engagement.
Respite Care Services:
Short-term stays are offered for those needing a safe environment while caregivers are away.
Ideal for individuals exploring assisted living without a long-term commitment.
Furnished apartments include all services provided to long-term care residents, with discharge assistance planning for a safe return home.
Choosing the Right Fit: How to Determine if Assisted Living is the Best Option
Assessment of Daily Activities: If an individual is struggling with basic activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, or medication management, Assisted Living may be the safest option. These facilities provide the necessary assistance to ensure residents' well-being.
Safety Concerns:Â If safety becomes a primary concern, particularly regarding mobility, navigating stairs, or handling emergencies, Assisted Living provides a secure environment with 24-hour care and support.
Health Monitoring and Medication Management: For individuals with complex health conditions or medication requirements, Assisted Living offers professional health monitoring and assistance with medication management, reducing the risk of health-related complications.
Memory Care Needs:Â If cognitive decline or memory-related issues are present, choosing an Assisted Living facility with specialized memory care ensures that residents receive tailored support and a secure environment.
Family Caregiver Burnout: If family members providing care are experiencing burnout or find it challenging to meet the evolving needs of their loved ones, transitioning to Assisted Living allows professional caregivers to step in, providing relief and ensuring consistent care.
Columbine provides a spectrum of senior living options, recognizing individuals and their family’s diverse needs and desires. Whether Independent Living for those craving autonomy with community support or Assisted Living for a holistic approach to well-being, our facilities are designed to enhance the lives of seniors in Northern Colorado. Explore Columbine Health Systems' facilities to discover the best fit for you or your loved one. Call 970-482-0198 today and we’d be honored to discuss the most appropriate options.
Columbine Health Systems has been Northern Colorado's leader in compassionate senior care since 1971. It has evolved to include a full continuum of care services, including patio homes, independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, therapy services, infusion therapy, home care, medical equipment, pharmacy, chaplains, and transportation.