The later stages of life hold the potential to be both fulfilling and exciting—but reaching that point requires thoughtful planning. Key choices, like ensuring financial security and selecting the right senior living community, are best made well in advance. Waiting too long can limit your options and may ultimately impact the quality and comfort of your golden years.
Before exploring the available options, consider your current and future needs. Assess factors such as:
An active senior may start with the independence of an Independent Living (IL) community, but as their needs evolve, they might transition to Assisted Living (AL), or Memory Care (MC). Most Merrill Gardens communities conveniently offer all of these options, providing the flexibility and support to adapt to every stage of life.
Independent Living is designed for those who want to stay active, engaged, and surrounded by a vibrant community of like-minded individuals. If you don’t need assistance with daily activities but appreciate the peace of mind that comes with knowing support is readily available if ever needed, this may be the best option for you. The word independent perfectly captures the freedom and flexibility Independent Living offers. Residents enjoy beautifully appointed apartments or cottages set within meticulously maintained grounds. They can savor restaurant-style dining, stay active in a state-of-the-art fitness center, and take part in a wide range of activities tailored to their interests—all within the comfort of a senior living community.
Assisted Living is ideal for seniors who need a little extra support with daily personal care. This may include assistance with:
In addition to personalized care, residents enjoy a full range of services, including dining, housekeeping, laundry, entertainment, and transportation.
While the decision to move to Assisted Living is often based on increasing care needs, these communities also offer enriching opportunities—helping residents stay socially connected, mentally stimulated, and fully engaged in everyday life.
Memory Care communities are essential for individuals living with cognitive impairments. Families can find peace of mind knowing their loved one is supported by highly trained team members experienced in caring for those with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other forms of cognitive decline.
Since no two Memory Care residents experience the same symptoms or progression, individualized care is key. That’s why a thorough assessment is conducted before move-in, ensuring each resident’s unique needs are fully understood and addressed. These communities have locked entrances. In addition to medical care, many Memory Care programs incorporate therapies such as music and pet therapy, offering meaningful ways to engage and stimulate memory.
Skilled Nursing provides both short-term and long-term care for seniors who require continuous medical support due to injury, chronic illness, or recovery after surgery. These facilities offer 24/7 medical supervision, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities—all within a structured, professional environment.
In short, Skilled Nursing is an ideal option for seniors who:
The cost of senior living varies based on the level of care required, making it essential to understand your personal preferences and needs when planning for the future. At Merrill Gardens, we offer flexible care options that evolve with you, ensuring comfort and peace of mind every step of the way. In addition, many of our communities also offer multiple levels of care, so one does not need to move if additional care becomes a necessity.
Schedule a tour today to explore our communities and discover how we can support you in creating a fulfilling future.