Retirees often don’t want to spend their time caring for a home. They are ready to have fun and live life to the fullest. To do so, they may consider selling the house and moving to a senior living community.
With numerous living solutions for retirees today, selecting the right one can be a challenging task. Individuals who can live alone often gravitate to licensed communities built for independent living. They benefit from the amenities offered in these communities while retaining their privacy and freedom.
What Are Independent Living Communities?
Independent living communities are designed with older adults in mind. Each community is unique, but all offer living spaces for those 55 or older. Some communities have age restrictions, requiring residents to be 62 or 65 years old. Additional services aren’t provided, so residents must be able to care for themselves. However, residents can live close to one another and benefit from on-site services and amenities.
Community Variations
While independent living communities share similarities, they also find ways to differentiate themselves. Some communities cater to specific interests or hobbies, and others are designed around a particular culture. Every person must determine what they value most and see if a community is full of like-minded individuals. When this community is found, they will blend in and feel as if they have been a part of the community forever.
See also: Seasonal Storage Solutions: Organizing and Rotating Items Throughout the Year
Safety Features
Regardless of which community an older adult chooses, they must consider the safety features offered. These features should enable residents to age in place for as long as possible. Doorways should be wider in the living spaces to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs. Bathrooms should have grab bars, and the community should feature non-slip flooring. Building elements like these enable individuals with mobility issues to live independently for longer.
Communal Areas
Independent living communities often have communal areas where residents can gather. These areas may be designed for quiet conversations, recreational activities, or meals. When visiting communities, families should look for a courtyard, patio, or other outdoor gathering space so their loved ones can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine on lovely days.
On-Site Amenities
Residents of independent living communities want to make the most of every moment. On-site amenities allow them to have more time for the things they love. For example, the community might have a salon or barber shop on the campus, a cinema, or a golf course. Many communities have libraries with computer stations and wellness centers.
Dining Options
Most independent living communities have a dining room where residents can gather and eat meals together. There may be restaurants on the campus, or residents can cook for themselves in their living quarters. Individuals must learn about the options and how they are paid for when comparing communities, as each community makes its own decisions. Furthermore, adults must learn whether the meal options can be tailored to their dietary restrictions.
Transportation
Seniors can frequently drive themselves places but prefer not to. Independent living communities often offer transportation services for community outings and within the community. However, residents may pay more to benefit from these services.
Many people compare the search for an independent living community to the search for a child’s college. The goal is to find a place where the older adult feels comfortable and can make friends while engaging in activities they enjoy. When this place is found, they will have a haven where they can live out their retirement years happily.
