Retirement age is the time in your life when you look forward to accomplishing all those projects that have been on hold. Needless to say, spending time with the grandchildren, gardening, or just talking leisurely strolls are exciting activities that we all look forward to experiencing. However, the responsibilities that go into caring for a home can become a burden. For example, there is lawn maintenance, window washing, meal preparation, snow removal, vacuuming, etc. The list of time-consuming chores are endless. Wouldn’t it be great to not worry about those responsibilities anymore and just enjoy life?
Is an Independent Living Community For You? What Are the Benefits?
Independent senior living communities have a lot to offer. They can be a safe haven for seniors and provide numerous amenities and attractions. The lifestyle is independent and you are surrounded by other seniors with similar interests. They can also relieve you of the costs and stress of taking care of a household. Independent living communities allow time to focus on the perks of retirement life. Is this type of community for you?
What Do Independent Living Communities Offer?
* This type of community is for persons over 55 that are generally in good health and enjoy being surrounded with social opportunities. However, some communities offer assisted living needs for those that need a little extra help. Having a consultation with the staff of the community would be necessary to determine if your specific needs would be met.
* This type of living is for seniors that have an active lifestyle but would enjoy the freedom from everyday housekeeping chores. You can go have a full day and then come home and relax.
* Snowbirds would especially benefit from this type of community. An independent living community would afford snowbirds the ability to travel freely without the worry of a home.
Amenities Offered
Each independent living community’s amenity package will vary. However, here are some example of amenities that are usually standard across the board.
Swimming Pools– swimming is considered one of the best ways to exercise because it is low impact and it provides a good overall workout.
Libraries– A library offers the opportunity to make use of a computer and keep in touch with friends and family via email and social media.
Transport– Seniors without cars will not have to worry about how to travel to and from doctor appointments or run errands around town.
Fitness Centers– No need for a monthly gym membership with an on-site gym. Also, makes keeping in shape convenient.
Hair and Nail Salons– Many communities offer salons and a barber shops for residents on-site.
24-Hour Security– You can rest in peace knowing that the facility is secure and strangers cannot just wander into the building.
Laundry Facilities– Being able to drop your clothing off at an on-site laundry is not only convenient but frees up time for other activities.
On-Site Staff– Having on-site staff is a benefit especially for seniors in need of personal assistance.
Alert Systems– Many facilities offer medical alerts systems to quickly contact medical assistance in case of emergencies.
Activity Centers– offer daily opportunities to engage in many activities, for example, arts and crafts while socializing with neighbors.
Independent living communities differ from subsidized housing communities. In a subsidized community, there are a strict set of governmental requirements and guidelines. Your income generally needs to be low. Usually, they have a waiting list that can last for many years. Independent living communities, however, are much easier to qualify for and the qualifications are similar to an apartment community. Generally, qualifying to be approved for an independent living community would be standard qualifications such as rental history, credit check and ability to afford the rent.
How Much Does an Independent Living Community Cost?
The cost can vary greatly from community to community and are based on your individual needs; for example, health care needs or daily personal assistance required. However, an independent living community’s cost would be much more affordable than the standard nursing care home.
