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Independent Living vs. Assisted Living: What’s the Difference?

February 15, 2023

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Senior living is not a “one-size-fits-all” solution. For many, there is a misconception that senior living is one lifestyle option, but this is not the case. Instead, different care and lifestyle options are available, enabling older adults and families to find the one that best suits their wants and needs.

However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to know one would be best for yourself or someone you love. For example, many people confuse independent living with assisted living, but there are key differences between these options.

Our team at Franciscan Ministries wants to help you and your family navigate your senior living journey. To help you get started, we are exploring the differences between independent living and assisted living services.

Independent Senior Living

HelpGuide states, “independent living is simply any housing arrangement designed exclusively for older adults, generally those aged 55 and older.”

This lifestyle option offers active seniors the best of both worlds – the privacy of living in their own space with the convenience and support of a community setting. In an independent living community, residents enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle with access to community amenities and conveniences, such as dining, wellness programs and community events.

Like living in a private residence, residents are free to come and go as they please; however, this community environment makes it easier to stay socially connected and engaged with friends and peers. Additionally, support or assistance is available if it is ever needed.

Independent Living at Franciscan Communities

Independent living at Franciscan Communities allows individuals to make new friends, experience new things and enjoy life on their own terms while focusing on what is important to them.

In addition, each of our senior living communities in Illinois, Indiana and Ohio offer various lifestyle options. Even if independent living may be the best option for you or a loved one right now, additional care options are available should needs change in the future.

Assisted Senior Living

Assisted senior living is meant to help older adults safely maintain their independence by receiving additional support with their routine and daily tasks. In addition to all the benefits of independent living, residents of an assisted living community also receive personalized care and support.

Assisted Living at Franciscan Communities

We believe assisted living means continuing to enjoy what you want when you want. Because of this, our assisted living communities in Illinois, Indiana and Ohio offer a comfortable, home-like environment balanced with the right amount of support to help you or your family member maintain independence. You or your loved one will also receive personalized daily assistance and compassionate care, along with access to a variety of programs and activities designed to exercise the body and mind.

From relaxing yoga classes and fulfilling leisure activities to personalized daily support such as medication management, we strive to help all residents reach a higher level of wellness and maintain their independence for as long as possible.

We treat each resident like family, personalizing care to their needs, lifestyle and passions. If you require help with your daily routine, our team members will assist with activities like dressing and bathing. If you enjoy exercise, gardening or another hobby, we offer activities and amenities that align with your interests. Our assisted living services at Franciscan Communities are built around the seven dimensions of wellness to help all residents discover more purpose and meaning in their lives and live joyfully.


The main difference between independent living and assisted living is the care provided. While both offer maintenance-free lifestyles and countless socialization and engagement opportunities, assisted senior living offers a higher level of daily care and support.

Finding the right level of senior living for you or a loved one is essential to promoting health and wellness, and each of our communities offers exceptional levels of care. If you want to learn more about what we offer, we invite you to visit our website or contact a member of our team.