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Assisted living communities have improved greatly during the past two decades. The competition among these providers has forced an increase in amenities and services offered. As these services increase, so does the comfort level of families who are making these decisions.

"What we offer to our residents is based on their individual desires as well as their needs," Glenda Snowa, an employee with Imperial Plaza, explained. "We offer Independent Living for those who are still capable of taking care of their selves and we offer assisted living, to varying degrees, depending on the individual's need."

HOUSING OPTIONS

1) In-Home Care

In-Home care is for those who are physically and emotionally able to provide their own basic needs while continuing to live in their own homes. This type of care is intended to raise their quality of living. According to Comfort Keepers (www.comfortkeepers.com 550 locations worldwide), the typical services you can expect to receive are:

*Conversation and Companionship
*Meal Preparation (nutritionally balanced, delicious, hot meals)
*Transportation (medical appointments, hair styling appointments, etc.)
*Light Housekeeping (vacuuming, dusting, sweeping, mopping, cleaning of bathrooms, taking out the trash, general organizing and straightening up of living areas, low level window-washing)
*Errand Services (Post office, drug stores, grocery shopping)
*Respite / Relief Care for Family members
*Medication reminders, assistance with reading labels and opening containers.
*Grooming and Dressing Guidance
*Laundry and linen Washing
*Review and Communication with Family
*Daily Phone Calls (to check on client)
*Recreational Activities (Board Games, Crafts)

2) Independent Living

Independent Living is for those who either cannot or choose not to continue living in their own homes. Many of the same services offered with In-Home care are available to those in Independent Living. One major difference between the two is the community involvement.

Within these apartment-style homes are individuals who seek the active lifestyle they may not have if living alone. It is the goal of the independent living facility to offer activities that promote socializing and enjoyment. Typical activities include:

*Dances
*Birthday Parties
*Happy Hour
*Trips (Horse Races, Museums, Plays)
*Dinner Clubs
*Casino Nights
*Bridge Clubs
*Bingo

3) Assisted Living Apartments / Assisted Living Houses

Assisted living is for those who need help with their daily living. The level of care will vary upon the individual's

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