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Choosing the best living option during your retirement years is among the most important decisions for older adults.
Whether you need assistance with personal care or you’re looking for a carefree lifestyle where you can relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor, there’s a long-term care solution for you.
Retirement communities and assisted living communities are two of the most popular and well-known senior living options.
While both cater to the needs of seniors, they have significant differences in terms of services, amenities, and level of care provided.
It’s essential for seniors to understand both to make an informed decision about the best fit for their unique needs and references.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between retirement communities and assisted living.
What is a retirement community?
Retirement communities, also known as independent living communities, are designed for independent seniors looking for a vibrant and socially engaging lifestyle that is also free of the worries of home ownership.
One of the key benefits of retirement living is the abundance of opportunities to meet, connect, and socialize with peers.
Let’s look at typical events residents enjoy at an Allegro Independent Living Community:
- Off-site excursions and trips
- Happy hour
- Movie theater
- Art classes
- Creative workshops
- Volunteer opportunities
- Fitness classes
- Art showcase & wine reception
- Book club
In addition, retirement communities provide a range of services and amenities, including fitness centers, swimming pools, beauty salons, spas, chef-prepared meals, luxury apartments, housekeeping, and laundry services.
Download our free guide, Choosing the Right Senior Living Community.
What is assisted living?
Assisted living communities are designed for seniors who value their independence but need assistance with personal care.
Assisted living communities provide the perfect balance between independence and care.
These communities offer a safe, supportive environment with trained staff to assist residents with daily tasks such as bathing, showering, dressing, medication management, and meal preparation.
Assisted living residents have access to various services and amenities such as:
- Private studio, one-bedroom apartments
- 24/7 security
- Salon and barbershop
- Daily housekeeping and personal laundry services
- Fitness classes
- Chef-prepared meals
- Companion services
- Planned activities and social events
- Transportation
Notable differences between retirement communities and assisted living communities
Retirement and assisted living communities allow retirees to live a carefree, socially active lifestyle with fantastic opportunities to socialize with their peers. The significant difference is in the level of care offered.
While assisted living communities offer access to healthcare services such as on-site physical and occupational therapy, trained medical staff, and daily help with personal care.
Retirement communities are for seniors who don’t need help with daily tasks and don’t require healthcare services.
In addition, costs can vary between retirement and independent living communities depending on your location, the level of care required in assisted living, and the amenities offered in retirement communities.
According to Genworth’s Cost of Care Survey, the median monthly cost of assisted living in the United States is $4,500, depending on your location, level of care needed, and apartment size.
The cost of a retirement community will vary greatly depending on the location, level of luxury, services, and amenities. Expect to pay an average monthly cost of $2,522 for retirement living.
Wrap-up
The decision between a retirement community depends on the individual's needs, preferences, and health.
Both options allow seniors to live a safe, active, and fulfilling lifestyle.
However, assisted living communities are a better option for seniors needing assistance with personal care and daily tasks.
Understanding the distinctions between retirement and assisted communities will empower seniors and their families to make informed decisions.
If you have questions or need help determining the best senior living community for yourself or a loved one, contact an Allegro advisor for help! Download our free guide, “Choosing the Right Senior Living Community,” here. 
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