For both seniors and their families who might be considering a move to an assisted living facility in Utah, one of the major areas to consider will be the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 facilities. The former generally refers to facilities that may admit residents who have stable health and only require limited assistance; the latter refers to residents who need significant assistance, including with two or more ADLs (activities of daily living).

Cozy Retire is proud to operate several assisted living communities throughout the state of Utah, offering both Type 1 and Type 2 services depending on the needs of our guests. Our Apple Village facility, for instance, located in Layton, is a Type 2 facility, while our Gardens and Apple Tree locations are both Type 1.

Unfortunately, a number of myths have arisen over the years regarding the differences between these types of assisted living. Here are a few of these major myths, plus the proper information in each area.

Myth #1: Type 1 Programs Can’t Help With Basic Daily Care

Some assume that Type 1 assisted living is so limited in scope that even basic tasks like toileting, dressing, grooming and showering are those where seniors cannot receive assistance. This is not the case — rather, it’s about the level of assistance seniors need when performing these tasks.

Both Type 1 and Type 2 facilities can perform these tasks depending on the needs of the senior.

Myth #2: Major Health Declines Require a Move

There’s also a belief among some, especially in Type 1 facilities, that if the resident experiences a major injury or health decline, they will be forced to move and will not be allowed to “age in place.” Again, this is false: Even in cases like bone fractures or diabetic needs, the vast majority of residents will be able to remain in their current location.

Type 1 facilities are not limited to seniors with “perfect” health, nor are Type 2 facilities only for the elderly who are gravely ill.

Myth #3: Residents With Wheelchairs or Walkers Can’t Use Type 1 Facilities

Again, this myth comes back to the idea that there’s a strict, narrow range of needs for Type 1 assisted living. In fact, many seniors on walkers and even those in wheelchairs can enjoy the benefits of these communities.

Myth #4: Type 1 Facilities Aren’t For Those With Dementia or Confusion

False! Type 1 assisted living staff are fully trained on memory care and can provide assistance to seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s. This myth persists because Type 1 facilities do not typically involve the use of “lockdown” memory care units, but that doesn’t mean that residents can’t receive assistance with memory loss.

Myth #5: There is No Registered Nurse (RN) On-Site for Type 1

Wrong again. Both our Gardens and Apple Tree locations, which are Type 1, have full-time RNs on the staff and on-site at all times.

For more on some of the myths out there about Type 1 versus Type 2 assisted living care in Utah, or to learn about any of our assisted living, memory care or other services, speak to the team at Cozy Retire today.