One of the toughest decisions that most adults will face is deciding when it’s time to leave their larger home and move into a more suited living arrangement. For many retirement or golden-age people, senior communities can be a great choice.
However, there are a lot of things to consider, and it’s best to discuss them with your loved ones before making any final decisions.
Most prospective residents who are looking for independent living apartments have many questions about what the lifestyle is like, as well as what different types of amenities are offered at various locations. The main thing they are seeking, however, is a place where they can enjoy all the benefits of senior living while still maintaining their independence.
It’s not easy to find the “perfect” place to live. In fact, it’s unlikely that anyone can find every single amenity or feature they are looking for. That’s why it’s important to sit down with your partner, and/or your children, and make a list of the things that matter most in your new residence.
To give our readers an idea of what they can expect from one of these communities, we put together this list of 6 things you should know about independent living locations!
1. Senior communities are a great transition from residential living
Source: sunflowercommunities.org
One of the hardest things about making this change in your life is the fact that it feels so different from traditional living. But the truth of the matter is, it’s not really that different at all. Many people think that moving from a single-family home in a residential area is, in some way, a “step down”. But nothing could be further from the truth.
These days, neighborhoods generally don’t have the same sense of community as they used to. Neighborhood BBQs, pool parties, holiday events, and other gatherings are far rarer than they used to be. And today’s seniors are from an era where community meant so much more. Senior independent living options provide that type of connectivity and interaction.
2. You can choose between private apartments, cottages, and villas
A quality senior community will offer residents a number of living options. As a general rule, apartments are the coziest and most cost-efficient options. However, if you desire more space, expanded outdoor areas, or a place to park your vehicle, cottages and larger villas are also often available. Here are a few of the many things you should expect when looking at independent living apartments:
- Fully-Equipped kitchens
- In-Unit washer & dryer
- 24-Hour emergency alert systems (located in bathrooms and bedrooms)
- Private patio or balcony
- Available storage
- On-Site security features
- Easy-to-Navigate, spacious, open floor plans
- Garage parking (usually only in the larger cottages and villas)
- Fireplaces
- Multiple common areas and other communal spaces for residents to enjoy
3. You’ll still enjoy all of the freedom and independence you desire
Source: seniorlifestyle.com
A very common concern that prospective residents have about senior community living is that they mistakenly think that it means some type of loss of independence or a downgrade in quality of life. But taking the time to have a few conversations with people who have made the transition will prove otherwise.
In fact, this lifestyle is often much more free and easy. With so many of the requirements of residential living taken care of by the provider, you can leave all the details and responsibilities to them.
4. It is a stress-free, all-inclusive living
Independent living apartment communities provide nearly anything you might need. Whether you are most interested in social activities, meal services, convenience, on-site facilities, or anything else, you should be able to find what you are looking for at a quality senior location. Here are some examples of what they may offer:
- All utilities, including internet, local phone, expanded cable, electricity, and water
- Three daily chef-prepared meals
- Expansive calendar of events, social activities, and classes
- Transportation to various activities, shopping, and doctor’s visits
- Enclosed pet park
- Large clubhouses and other recreational centers
- Health and fitness facilities
- Optional storage spaces
- Nature amenities such as walking trails, ponds, and gardens
- On-Site barber shops and beauty salons
5. It can significantly improve your quality of life
Source: belmontvillage.com
Not only are independent living apartments not a step-down, but in many ways, they are a step-up. For example, residents who never took the time to go to the gym may find themselves in a regular workout routine after they move in. This is one of the benefits of having fitness facilities on-site.
Then there are people who were perhaps too busy to cook so they didn’t have the healthiest eating habits. High-quality, chef-prepared meals provide them with a better diet than they’ve been accustomed to. And other residents whose friends have moved off or passed away often enjoy the opportunity for increased socialization with others.
6. Many senior living locations offer assisted living services
In many cases, senior communities also offer additional wellness services and assistance for residents that may need them. This includes things like medication reminders, assistance with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and grooming, local physicians that do in-house visits, and many others.
You should know that not all independent living apartment communities are the same.
With more and more people living longer through healthier lifestyles, improvements in medical care, and many other reasons, we have more seniors alive today than ever before. That has brought a huge increase in the number of senior living communities.
However, it is very important to note that they aren’t all created equal. Just as with many other industries, there are high-quality locations, mid-level, and some that are less than reputable. When it comes time to make your decision, be sure to do thorough research on the potential communities you may be considering moving into.
Check independent reviews, resident testimonials, and any other relevant information you can find. That way, you can rest assured that you made the right choice and have found a place that will feel like home.
