Many active seniors contemplate the transition to an independent living community when they desire to downsize from a spacious home or seek a maintenance-free lifestyle. Let’s explore the advantages of making this move.
Individual Housing within a Community
The types of housing in independent living communities vary greatly, but residents can expect an apartment, a duplex, or small cottage that is yours to furnish and decorate as you wish. Being part of a community doesn’t mean giving up personal freedom. You can engage in activities you enjoy, come and go as you please, and make your own decisions about daily life. You get the benefits of community living without sacrificing your independence.
Imagine the freedom of independent living with cozy, spacious apartments that provide privacy, along with the opportunity to socialize with fellow residents in communal spaces at your convenience.
Family and Friends are Welcome
Because your home is your own, you can have visitors either at your home or in one of many community areas that are open to visiting family or friends. There’s no need to feel isolated from family members or friends outside of the community.
Social Opportunities in Independent living communities
Independent living communities often organize a variety of social activities, which can include group outings, game nights, book clubs, holiday parties, fitness and art classes, and more. These activities provide numerous opportunities for residents to connect and build friendships, contributing to a strong sense of community and alleviating social isolation.
Maintenance-Free Living
One major benefit of living in an independent living community is that you are not responsible for home maintenance, yard work, or housekeeping. This allows you to enjoy your retirement years without worrying about the chores associated with owning a home. You can take a walk in the beautiful grounds knowing that you’ll never have to mow the lawn or prune a shrub, and when repairs are needed, someone else takes care of them.
Affordability
While independent living communities do come at a cost, they often include utilities, maintenance, meals, and various amenities in their pricing. If you currently own a home, you’re paying for homeowners’ insurance, utilities, possibly lawn and/or pool maintenance, plus the associated equipment, and, in some cases, HOA fees. If you add up the costs of the services provided by an independent living facility, your rent and fees are likely less expensive than what you’re paying now, making an independent living facility an affordable housing option.
Community Amenities
Instead of getting in the car or taking public transportation to the library or senior center, you can walk — or take the shuttle — to those conveniences. You can prepare meals in your home on the premises, or you can head over to the dining hall and enjoy a freshly prepared meal with your friends. Independent living communities frequently offer fitness centers, swimming pools, walking trails, and wellness programs designed to keep seniors active and healthy.
If you do want to venture out into the city, you’ll find that most facilities have a resident concierge shuttle ready to take you out to a play or restaurant.
Safety and Security
Independent living communities often have enhanced security measures such as monitored entrances, security personnel, and emergency response systems. This can provide peace of mind for both residents and their families.
Age in Place
Many independent living communities are part of larger campuses that offer assisted living and nursing care. This means if your health needs change over time, you may be able to transition to a higher level of care without having to leave your community. This is particularly beneficial for couples who may need different levels of care but wish to remain close to each other.
Read about choosing assisted living here.
Easy Access to Healthcare
Independent living communities are often located near medical facilities, and some even have healthcare professionals on-site. This ensures easy access to medical care when needed, providing added peace of mind.
These benefits highlight why many seniors choose to transition to an independent living community. If you’re considering this option, visiting various communities and evaluating their offerings can help you find the right fit for your needs.
Story by Julia Osgood
This article was posted by Jesse Williams
