Cedar Rapids Area Senior Living Options: What are the Types to Consider?

Learn More About . . .
Senior Living Options

As Senior Real Estate Specialists (SRES), we'd like to share some of the

options available in the Cedar Rapids/Marion metro area for Senior Living.  

Jumping into the decision-making process can be overwhelming - 

options range from aging in place at home to full-time care.

Types of Senior Community/Care Options

What are the main determining factors?

1) The amount of care you or your loved one will need

2) Affordability.

Aging in Place

Most of us want to stay in our homes for as long as possible -
according to studies, over 75% want to stay put!

* Best suited for those who are relatively independent.

* Seniors can live on their own or with family.

* Services can be hired as needed: lawn care, cleaning, meal services,

in-home caregivers, transportation services.
* Modifications can be made to the home: ramps, grab bars, medical alert systems

* Low cost

Independent Living

* Housing designed specifically for Seniors: retirement homes, retirement communities, senior apartments.

* Great for older adults who want independence within an active community. 

Benefits include freedom from yard maintenance, cooking and cleaning, opportunities for socialization.

* Medium to high costs, depending on services and amenities.

Residential Care Home

* Small facilities that offer care to a small group of individuals.

Also known as Adult Family Homes.

* Offer a home, meals and assistance with daily activities.

Benefits include freedom from yard maintenance, cooking and cleaning, opportunities for socialization.

* Generally medium cost range; less than a regular nursing home and depending,
 can be less expensive than even assisted living.

Continuing Care Retirement Community

* A community in which all senior living options are available, from independent living,
assisted living to skilled nursing.

* Ideal for those who want to move into a community without the need and worry of moving
again later when their health changes.

Also a positive situation for couples, if one person needs more care they'll be close.

* Costs are high, generally the most expensive of all senior living options: 

there are usually entrance fees plus monthly fees which increase with the level of care.

Assisted Living Communities

* Generally consist of small apartments within a care community. 

Services may vary depending on the community.

* Suited for those who have a level of independence but may require some assistance.

* Staff is usually available around the clock.  Meals, bathing/dressing, housekeeping, medication management and transportation are included.

Common areas for dining and social activities.

* Costs are usually high, depending on the level of daily help and the kind of living space.

Nursing Home/Skilled Nursing

* For seniors who need supervised care with meals, healthcare and general activities.

* A licensed physician supervises the care for each resident.  There is generally a nurse or other medical professional on staff.  Some facilities may even have  physical and/or 

occupational therapy available on premises.

Specialized care may be available for dementia patients.

* Costs are high but depend on level of care and type of living space.

Stay tuned, we'll share more information such as what to look for when you're making decisions.  

As "Move Managers" we can help coordinate the process as you prepare to move.  

Do you need help downsizing items you've been holding on to? 

We've got contacts who can help with that as well as help pack if needed.

Are there some repairs or small projects that need to be done? 
We'll connect you with the right contractors.

If you're looking to get information on the value of your current home, give us a call (319-551-3170) and we'll schedule a free home valuation.

~ Judy