Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between independent living and assisted living?

Independent living is for active older adults who desire a maintenance-free lifestyle while assisted living is for persons who may require some support and assistance to maintain an independent lifestyle. Basic services in independent living include dining options (typically continental breakfast and choice of lunch or dinner daily) housekeeping, building and grounds maintenance, a calendar of activities and scheduled transportation. Independent living is for older adults who are:

• Capable of residing alone
• Able to recognize their own health, medical, financial and legal needs
• Capable of performing everyday tasks independently

Looking to free themselves of the responsibilities of home ownership and maintenance Assisted living is a lifestyle that benefits older adults who can no longer live alone, but who don’t need the intensive services of a nursing home. At an assisted living community residents enjoy the independence and pleasure of living in their own home, with the added comfort of 24-hour supportive services, if needed. Persons may benefit from assisted living if they:

• Wish to maintain their independence, but can’t manage alone
• Need some assistance with everyday activities, like dressing, bathing or grooming
• Need help managing their medications
• Desire companionship and social interaction

What are the accommodations like?

While specific accommodations vary from community to community, residents typically can select from a variety of private studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments. Residents furnish the apartment with their own belongings, ensuring all the comforts of home. Each apartment is complete with wall-to-wall carpeting, window treatments and individually controlled heating and air-conditioning. Safety features include smoke detectors and sprinklers as well as safety-assist bars in the bathroom(s). Independent living apartments have complete kitchens with modern appliances. Assisted living apartments have kitchenettes that typically include a sink, microwave and a mini-refrigerator. Beyond their apartment doors, residents will find a multitude of common areas — both inside and out — at their disposal for socializing, entertaining family and friends, pursuing hobbies or simply relaxing.

What kind of personal assistance is available in assisted living?

While regulations vary from state to state, Parkside’s staff can assist with a variety of personal care needs and everyday living activities. Services may include help with bathing, grooming, dressing, medication monitoring and reminders for meals and activities, depending on the specific needs of each resident. In addition, our staff takes care of routine household chores like cooking, cleaning, and building and grounds maintenance. Our Director of Resident Services develops a personal care plan to determine the level of service each resident needs before he or she moves in. This plan is flexible, and can change as the resident’s needs change.

Is transportation available?

Parkside communities have vehicles that make regularly scheduled trips to local establishments such as stores, banks, medical facilities and places of worship. Vehicles are also used for planned social and recreational events. For an additional fee, individually scheduled transportation may be available.

What kinds of social and recreational programs are available?

There is an assortment of programs and events for residents’ enjoyment from book reviews to movie classics, theatre outings to gardening, exercise classes and art instruction. However, because we promote personal choice and independence, there’s never any pressure to participate. Residents will receive a monthly calendar of events. Programs vary from community to community based on the interests of the residents.

Can residents entertain family and friends?

Of course – we encourage it! For special occasions, residents can reserve the private dining room and arrange for the dining services department to cater the event. Guests are also welcome to dine in the dining room at any time or stay overnight.

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