Tips for Choosing a Retirement Home in Alberta

When it comes to retirement homes in Alberta, they come in all shapes and sizes.

Some provide independent living options, while others provide day-to-day care.

Different retirement homes offer different environments and amenities.

Like any home, you want to find the right retirement home that will meet your needs so you can live a relaxed and comfortable life!

To get you started on your journey to retirement living, here are some different options for senior living in Alberta, as well as questions to ask when choosing a retirement home:

Different Living Options for Seniors in Alberta

In Alberta, there are different options based on health needs, personal preferences, and budget.

It’s important to understand these options in order to make an informed decision.

Independent Living

Independent living allows seniors to live independently in a home or unit that is easier to navigate with no maintenance, such as yard work.

Residents live independently, but many of these communities offer amenities, services, and activities like recreational centers, fitness centers, and salons.

Independent living facilities are aimed at older adults who require little to no help with daily activities but are looking for a living arrangement that offers an easier living situation.

Independent living facilities can include low-income or subsidized senior housing, senior apartments, retirement homes, and retirement communities.

Independent Support Living

Independent support living allows seniors to independently live their lives in a retirement home while having access to supportive services such as housekeeping, laundry, and transportation.

Independent support living is often compared to assisted living, which we’ll talk about below, but it offers privacy and discreet care within an independent environment.

Many independent support living facilities also offer cooked meals, social activities, medication administration services, and support with daily living.

Independent support living is ideal for seniors who can live independently but could enjoy extra daily support.

Assisted Living

Assisted living is a senior housing option that provides support when it comes to daily activities such as cooking and bathing but doesn’t always include medical care.

Although some assisted living facilities have a limited staff to provide medical assistance.

Most facilities provide meals, housekeeping, laundry, exercise activities, and transportation to appointments.

Residents in assisted living facilities typically have a private bedroom and bathroom but share other common areas.

Assisted living arrangements are best suited for those who need help with basic activities on a regular basis, and residents receive professional support with their day-to-day lives.

Memory Care 

A memory care facility is part of an assisted living community or nursing home that is designed specifically for individuals with dementia or similar illnesses.

They usually provide more supervision with a larger staff, as well as security features to prevent residents from wandering unsupervised.

Overall, memory care facilities help those who suffer from dementia feel more at ease and safe.

In memory care facilities, the staff are trained to care for those with dementia, so they understand the intricacies of the disease.

What Is the Difference Between Long-Term Care and a Retirement Home?

Although these two terms are often used to describe the same living arrangement, there are many differences between long-term care facilities and retirement homes.

Long-term care homes provide 24-hour nursing care and supervision, while retirement homes provide accommodations with additional care and services for day-to-day living.

Retirement homes focus on flexibility and independence, offering residents an opportunity to live an independent lifestyle while enjoying care and personalized service, as well as a community atmosphere.

Those who live in retirement homes often have their own suites, create their own schedule, and choose their own meals.

Long-term care homes, often called nursing homes, are focused on providing 24/7 care and supervision to individuals who cannot live independently or take care of themselves.

This can include helping residents with eating, dressing, bathing, and more. Meals are prepared to meet dietary restrictions and requirements.

Long-term care homes also provide care that encourages physical, social, intellectual, and spiritual health.

Overall, the differences between long-term care and a retirement home include cost and the types of services offered.

Important Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Retirement Home in Alberta

Now that you know the differences between different types of retirement living options, let’s look at some questions you should ask while touring these facilities:

Living Spaces

• Are the living spaces easy to navigate?

• Can residents have pets?

• Are internet services included?

• Is housekeeping included?

Staff

• Are staff required to have background checks?

• Are staff available 24/7?

• Is the staff trained on elder neglect and abuse?

• What is the facility’s policy on reporting elder abuse?

Health Care

• What kinds of medical professionals do you have on staff?

• Does the facility coordinate home health care visits?

• Do the residents have a written plan of care?

• Are residents transported to doctor’s appointments?

Nutrition

• How many meals are provided each day?

• Do residents have access to snacks?

• Are meals served at set times?

• Can residents take food to their rooms?

Activities

• What kinds of activities are available for residents?

• Are residents encouraged to participate?

• Do you schedule outings in the community?

Find Your Perfect Senior Community

As you begin to explore senior living options, the variety of choices can be overwhelming.

Take the time to think about the different living options for seniors in Alberta and how each will meet your unique and individual needs.

When you do visit a facility, don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you like to determine if they are the right choice for you.

Your golden years are meant to be relaxing and carefree - and the perfect retirement home is waiting for you!