Senior independent living is a popular option for older adults who can navigate a household and complete activities of daily living on their own. Depending on your situation, it can take one of several forms. Explore what independent living for seniors is, what options are available, and how to choose the right one for you.
What Independent Living for Seniors Is: A Closer Look
Some people refer to any option that allows an older adult to live without direct assistance as independent living for seniors. However, that overlooks some of the most important aspects of this type of housing.
An important thing to note is that “senior independent living” and “living independently” are not interchangeable. The latter is sometimes called aging in place, and it refers to an older adult choosing to stay in an existing home in their community. Often, it is considered the ideal choice, but it is neither feasible nor desirable for many seniors.
Independent senior living facilities offer enriching and engaging communities where older adults can live independently yet still have access to support services as needed. They are usually designed to accommodate common age-related mobility concerns and to mitigate fall risks. Additionally, many facilities have activities and amenities that help seniors live rewarding lives.
Types of Senior Independent Living Facilities
Senior housing is as varied as the older adults who choose to live there. With several types of independent living facilities available, you may want to explore each option before deciding which one is right for you.
Senior Apartments
These are usually age-restricted apartments where you can live independently. They typically feature ADA-accessible features such as walk/roll-in showers, wide hallways, elevators, grab bars, and emergency call systems.
Senior apartment buildings are generally more affordable than standard units, and many offer income-based rent systems. However, these units do not usually have many amenities, activities, or services.
Retirement (55+) Communities
Like senior apartments, retirement communities are age restricted. Residents can usually choose to rent or own a property within the community, with typical housing options including single-family homes, townhomes, condos, patio homes, or a mix of them. Many feature access gates, which provide an added security layer for older adults.
Retirement communities usually have a central gathering space, such as a clubhouse, and some amenities or recreation features, including pools, pickleball courts, and walking trails. Property managers generally take care of external home maintenance and grounds upkeep.
Continuing Care Communities
Continuing care communities offer residents a place to start their journey in independent living and add additional services as needed. It allows them to transition to residential care, memory care, or skilled nursing without the upheaval of a move.
These communities can be an excellent option for someone who can still live independently but who has a medical condition, such as dementia, that will require progressively more care.
Independent Living Communities
Independent living is an excellent option for seniors who want to live independently without the hassle of maintaining a home. It combines resort-style living with private condos, townhomes, apartments, or single-family homes.
Most independent living communities for seniors are rental properties. They are typically single-level homes or condos, but some have apartments. All senior independent living facilities use ADA-accessible features to maximize resident comfort, convenience, and safety.
You can expect access to the same features as a retirement community plus added activities and services. For example, The Villas is a premier independent senior living community in Kearney, MO, that combines private housing with exceptional support services, including beautifully landscaped grounds, opportunities for social engagement, and transportation to local attractions and shopping.
Some independent living communities also offer add-on services, which is an excellent choice if you don’t anticipate the need for residential care in the near future.
Amenities and Support Services Available at Independent Senior Living Facilities
The amenities and support available at independent living facilities are what makes them such a wonderful place for seniors. For example, housekeeping and home maintenance keep units clean and ensure repairs get done promptly. Although each community will have a slightly different approach to resident engagement, you can typically find the following activities offered:
- Dining services
- Exercise and fitness programs
- Hairdressers and barbers
- Religious services
- Social activities, such as games, movies, book clubs
Additionally, many facilities provide scheduled transportation to local attractions, shopping centers, and medical facilities. All of these services allow residents to safely maintain their independence and dignity.
If independent senior living residents find they need additional care, they may need to consider moving. However, some communities offer add-on services or the option to transition to residential care within the same facility. Other older adults prefer to bring in outside care services with a caregiver or nursing assistant.
Factors To Help You Choose A Senior Independent Living Option
You want to consider several factors when choosing a community:
- Amenities: Look for a community that has amenities and service options you enjoy. Knowing the options will help you choose one that meets your current and future needs.
- Budget: Costs can vary widely between different types of independent living and individual facilities. Your housing option should be within your budget for long-term stability.
- Comfort: If you are used to a large home with a lot of privacy, moving to a tiny senior apartment can be overwhelming. Choose an option with the space, floorplans, and features you want to be comfortable.
- Location: A facility near family, friends, social activities, and medical providers is convenient. It enables you to stay connected with others, continue activities you enjoy, and see your regular doctors.
Before you start touring properties, establish a list of priorities for your new home. Then, use that list to guide your selection process.
What Is Independent Living for Seniors? Experience It Yourself at The Villas in Kearney
Westbrook Care Center provides comfortable and safe senior housing in Kearney, MO. We have both independent senior living and residential care options. When you contact us, our staff can help explain what independent living for seniors is and if it is a good fit for you. Schedule a tour of The Villas today.