City: Memphis, TN

Category: Retirement

Telephone: (901) 774-2000

Address: 1620 Marjorie Street

Description: When it comes to choosing a retirement home, you’ll find numerous options in Memphis. There are more than 100 retirement centers and other residences for seniors in the city, ranging from independent-living residences to nursing homes.Where to live during the golden years is a very personal decision and one that requires careful research and thought. People have different ideas of what they’re looking for in terms of amenities, food, and social activity. For example, a very sociable environment with loads of organized activities might be heaven to one retiree and hell to another. The chances of finding a fit are good, because the services of each center can be closely tailored to the individual needs of the resident. “Continual care” is a buzz phrase you’ll hear a lot, and it means that when a resident needs more care or services, they’re available. Essentially, there are four categories of housing for senior citizens: senior housing (often called independent living), assisted living, homes for the aged, and nursing homes. In Tennessee assisted-living facilities, homes for the aged, and nursing homes are all licensed by the state Department of Health. Senior housing is designed for independent living, sometimes with personal services. As the term can mean just about anything—including simply an apartment complex that doesn’t allow families with children—it’s always a good idea to ask what amenities are available. Assisted living is for those who are able to maintain their independence, thanks to help with such things as meals, housekeeping, monitoring of medicines, bathing, and dressing. Homes for the aged are a variation on assisted living, some with as few as four licensed beds. Nursing homes are for residents who need 24-hour licensed nursing supervision and assistance with most activities of daily living. Contact the Aging Commission of the Mid-South’s information and assistance hotline at (901) 324-3399 or try the Best Times at (901) 458-2911 for the annual listing of retirement living communities that appears in its November issue.