Independent living in a retirement community lets you maintain optimal personal independence while accessing a wide variety of amenities and activities. While independent living doesn’t typically include regular nursing or medical care of any type, it can still provide peace of mind benefits for seniors.
What Amenities Are Common in Independent Living?
The exact amenities and nature of an independent living community can vary. In some, seniors live in fully equipped apartments, cottages or other homes. They may make their own meals, come and go on their own schedules and otherwise live their lives a lot like they did before moving into independent living.
At the same time, residents may have access to amenities when they want them. Common amenities offered include:
- Planned activities and social calendars
- Transport to group activities and shopping outings
- Prepared meals in restaurant or dining room settings
- In-community salons and barber shops, exercise spaces, computer rooms or libraries
- Gardens and other outdoor spaces to enjoy
If you choose to make a home in a community that offers various levels of care, you may have more options for amenities. In such cases, you may also be able to access staff support for occasional health needs, such as planning a better diet or checking your vital signs.
Who Is Independent Living Right for?
Independent living may be the right choice for seniors who can live mostly on their own without putting their health at risk. If you can still care for your own daily needs and home but you like the idea of a more secure setting with options for reaching out to staff if you need them, independent living might be a good choice. It might also be right for older adults who want to be more social but are struggling to find opportunities in and around their existing homes.