Choosing the right senior independent living community is an important decision that can impact your future. Look for communities that offer aging-in-place features, such as accessible bathing and kitchens.Independent living communities are designed for seniors who want to live maintenance-free and enjoy the perks of socialization. They often offer services like housekeeping, transportation, and dining options.
Choosing a Place to Live
Many older adults want to remain home after retirement, but home maintenance and care can become too much. For these seniors, independent living communities are a good option to maintain independence and provide an active lifestyle that frees them from home upkeep.Most independent living communities like
Westminster Suncoast offer services to make daily life easier, including housekeeping and trash removal, meal plans, and transportation services. They may also offer conveniences like beauty and barber salons, woodworking or crafting rooms, and concierge services that can arrange theater tickets, dry cleaning, and travel plans.Another important consideration is the location. Some people choose to live near their family, while others prefer to move to a community in a familiar location they love. In today’s transient society, it’s not uncommon for seniors to relocate from one geographic area to the next – for example, to be closer to their children or to have better access to healthcare resources.
Visiting the Community
Independent living communities offer amenities like clubhouses, restaurants, and fitness centers that provide opportunities for socialization and exercise. Utilities are included in monthly costs, and transportation services can help with errands or community outings.Many seniors enjoy the simplicity and freedom of independent living, where maintenance and household chores are taken care of. They also enjoy socializing via video chat with friends and family members who live nearby.If a senior’s health needs change, they can move to assisted living or memory care within the same Life Plan Community, where they already know and trust the caregivers. This can prevent a stressful relocation during an already challenging time. It can also save money as care needs are met sooner rather than later.
Assessing Your Needs
Visiting independent living communities can give you a feel for whether they will adapt to your changing needs. For example, you may need assistance bathing, dressing, or managing medications. You might also require a diet that accommodates your allergies or
dietary restrictions. These accommodations are only offered in some independent living communities, but you should be able to find them in many.Most independent living communities provide amenities and services to help you live more actively after retirement. They include recreational centers, fitness programs, and walking paths. They can also offer book clubs, arts and crafts groups, and continuing education classes.You’ll also find that independent living homes usually serve nutritious chef-prepared meals. This can help to increase your appetite as you age. This is important because many older adults find that their relationship with food changes as they age, with some medications and chronic medical conditions limiting the types of foods they can enjoy.
Making the Decision
Choosing a senior living community can be a big step. It can feel like giving up some of your independence, but the decision should be made when you are still healthy and can independently manage household chores, travel, and other everyday tasks.Independent living communities have many amenities and activities to keep residents engaged without the burden of maintaining a home or yard. Onsite fitness centers, game rooms, libraries, and restaurants provide opportunities to meet other residents, and various social programs offer opportunities to stay connected with family, friends, and the community at large.Most independent living communities require a monthly fee that includes rent, services, and amenities. This can be paid with personal funds, the proceeds from the sale of a home, retirement income, or long-term care insurance. Continuing care retirement communities, or Life Plan Communities, also require an upfront entrance fee that may be partially or fully refundable depending on the plan chosen.
