Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care: How to Choose
Aug 15, 2025
Whether you are considering independent living, assisted living, or memory care, each path offers its own unique support and sense of community. At The Westerly Pewaukee, we understand that the journey to finding the right living community often begins with questions and sometimes a bit of uncertainty. This guide offers clarity to help families make the right decision, especially when the need for specialized support or round the clock support becomes a reality.
Let’s explore the main differences between each care type and how residents benefit when the right match is made.
Independent Living at The Westerly Pewaukee
For older adults who are active, independent, and looking to maintain their lifestyle while simplifying daily routines, independent living at The Westerly Pewaukee offers an appealing blend of comfort and connection. Here, life is enriched by a welcoming senior living environment where social interaction and convenience take center stage.
Our independent living options include private one- and two-bedroom residences, many featuring bonus rooms that can be used as offices, hobby spaces, or guest areas. Residents enjoy three meals a day, daily continental breakfast, housekeeping, utilities, and transportation for outings, all while living in Lake Country’s natural beauty.
This level of care is best suited for those who do not need help with daily living tasks such as bathing or medication management, but still want to enjoy the benefits of living in a vibrant living community.
Assisted Living Communities and What They Offer
When daily living tasks become more challenging, transitioning into one of our assisted living communities may offer the right balance of independence and support. The Westerly Pewaukee provides personal care that helps residents continue to thrive, without the stress of managing health conditions or home upkeep on their own.
Our assisted living and memory care services include help with dressing, grooming, bathing, and mobility. Staff members are trained to assist with medication management and ensure that safety and comfort are prioritized. Unlike a nursing home setting, assisted living at The Westerly blends a homelike environment with access to engaging activities and wellness services.
This option is ideal for seniors who need help with daily living but still want to participate in meaningful activities, maintain their dignity, and live in a supportive senior living community. While many communities may offer similar basics, the vibrant lifestyle and the staff at The Westerly take time to truly know each resident and their family, making each day feel meaningful and personal.
Memory Care for Cognitive Needs
When a loved one begins experiencing memory problems or has been diagnosed with early dementia, choosing memory care becomes an important consideration. At The Westerly Pewaukee, our memory care programs are carefully structured to address the unique needs of memory care residents with Alzheimer's disease, other memory impairments, or cognitive decline.
Our memory care communities provide a secure environment where each resident’s well being is the top priority. The community is intentionally intimate, with just 18 memory care units, promoting familiarity and connection. Our trained staff members use a person-centered approach to support residents through all stages of memory loss, from the early stages to the later stages.
Memory care at The Westerly includes full assistance with daily living, housekeeping, three meals a day, laundry, and 24-hour emergency response systems. Every effort is made to encourage residents through engaging activities and therapies tailored to memory conditions.
What Most Families Consider When Choosing a Senior Living Option
Most families begin their search by asking: What does my loved one need now, and how might that change in the future?
Here are a few key factors to consider:
Level of independence: Can your loved one manage their own care, or are support services required?
Health needs: Are there medical conditions that require monitoring or medication management?
Cognitive health: Are there signs of early dementia, confusion, or other memory impairments?
Lifestyle desires: Does your loved one value social interaction, amenities, and community engagement?
Safety and structure: Would a secure environment bring peace of mind for everyone involved?
At The Westerly, each resident is assessed to ensure they are placed in the setting that best fits their current and future needs, whether that's independent living, assisted living, or a memory care unit.
How The Westerly Stands Out
Unlike traditional nursing homes or generic housing options, The Westerly Pewaukee provides a high-quality senior living experience rooted in connection and care.
What truly sets The Westerly Pewaukee apart is the feeling you get when you walk through the doors. There’s a genuine warmth in the way staff and residents connect; team members know not only the names of the residents, but also their stories, their families, and their preferences. It feels like home in every sense, offering comfort and a sense of belonging that’s hard to describe but instantly felt. Our approach is shaped by respect and a commitment to enriching the lives of older adults through meaningful relationships.
Our amenities, ranging from the indoor pool to the salon and spa, reflect our belief that life in a senior living community should be just as dynamic and fulfilling as life outside of it. Whether your loved one enjoys tea in the Swan Room, plays a virtual round in the golf simulator, or simply savors the view from the rooftop patio, we offer more than just a place to live, we offer a place to belong.
Final Thoughts on Making the Right Choice
Every person’s journey is unique. Some may transition from independent living to assisted living, and eventually to memory care if cognitive decline develops. Others may need specialized care earlier on due to Alzheimer's disease or other memory impairments. What matters most is that the path forward feels supported and aligned with your family’s values.
At The Westerly Pewaukee, we’re here to walk that journey with you. Whether you’re exploring assisted living and memory care for the first time or considering a new chapter for a loved one, we welcome you to discover how our senior living community can meet your needs today and into the future.
Contact us to learn more or schedule a personalized tour. We’re here to help you take the next step with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a resident transition between care levels at The Westerly Pewaukee?
Yes. Our community supports evolving needs, allowing residents to move from independent living to assisted living or memory care as their health and cognitive status changes.
2. How do I know if my loved one needs memory care instead of assisted living?
If your loved one is experiencing confusion or noticeable memory loss, and requires structured support in a secure environment, memory care may be the better option.
3. How does The Westerly Pewaukee support family members during the transition?
We work closely with families to ease the transition process, offering guidance, regular updates, and involvement opportunities so everyone feels informed and reassured.