What does Independent Living mean?

Living independently means living on your own terms — following your schedule, pursuing your interests, and managing your engagements your way. Older adults who are in generally good health can take advantage of an Independent Living community that combines comfortable residences, a social network of like-minded older adults, and services and amenities that simplify daily living and maximize fun and fulfillment.

What you can expect:

The residence

Independent Living residences come in various styles, depending on the community, and can include studio, one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments, plus townhomes, villas, duplexes, cottages, and free-standing homes.

Conveniences include:

• Floor plans designed for older adults’ safety and comfort
• Modern kitchens, appliances, and finishes
• Off-street parking in lot, carport, or garage
• Additional storage areas (often provided for apartment residents’ use)

As an Independent Living resident, you’re free to come and go as you please, entertain friends and family (and occasional overnight guests), travel at will (with confidence that your residence is watched over by community security), and conduct your affairs as you always have in your home.

The community

Your neighbors are seniors in your age range. Many might have lived in the area, including some you already know. You’ll find shared interests, plenty to talk about, new ideas that confirm or reshape your thinking, and people who genuinely care for each other and you. You’ll all be united in the belief that a socially engaged setting — with opportunities for friendship, adventure, and discovery — is better than isolation.

Dining venues, workshops, seminars, classes, happy hours, entertainment, and fitness activities make it easy to connect with others and enhance your well-being, too. Participation in community events is voluntary, as befits the idea of Independent Living.

When the Independent Living community is part of a Life Plan community, you can maintain relationships with other residents even if any of you move to Assisted Living, Residential Living, Memory Care, or Skilled Nursing.

The services and amenities

Somewhat by pampering, more by liberating, Independent Living’s services and amenities transform daily life. A homeowner’s chores and responsibilities often get in the way of what an older adult wants to do, but now you can safely push those impediments aside. Cooking and washing dishes? A daily meal is prepared and served as part of the dining plan. Housekeeping? Friendly staff regularly step in for that. Lawn care? That’s what the groundskeepers are for. Repairs? Phone for maintenance and get assistance promptly.

Services and amenities vary by community, but generally include:

• • On-site dining venues and a meal plan
  • 24/7 security
  • Concierge service
  • Educational programs and entertainment
  • Fitness center and classes
  • Art, craft, and/or woodworking studios
  • Auditorium or multi-purpose room
  • Religious services
  • Library
  • Beauty salon and barber
  • Covered parking
  • Transportation services
  • Housekeeping and flat-linen service
  • General maintenance and groundskeeping services

 

Is Independent Living for you?

Older adults in good health who seek to sustain their fun and fulfilling lives are likely to find Independent Living is a good choice. With its helpful, satisfying services and amenities, and its rich, friendly community life, this senior living lifestyle simplifies the pursuit of happiness and enhances well-being.