Independent living for seniors provides the most freedom and versatility in living conditions and lifestyle. Independent Living is a residence located in a compact, easy-to-maintain, private apartment or house within a community of seniors. Any housing arrangement designed exclusively for seniors can be classified as an Independent Living community and the most common types are:
- Senior apartments
- Retirement communities
- Low-income housing
Independent living for seniors is also known in others terms such as, retirement communities and homes, senior apartments and housing, and independent living communities. Retirement communities may be standard subdivisions, cluster housing, single-family or attached homes, and mobile or manufactured homes. Depending on the community, residents may either buy or lease their homes.
Independent living is the ability to maintain one’s residence and lifestyle without medical assistance. Individuals are permitted to bring in outside services of their choice, should this become necessary.
Independent living is ideally suited to seniors that wish to live independently, and who are healthy and able to care for themselves. They not longer want the burden of maintaining a house. Individuals want the security in a seniors-only community and wish to live among their peers. They also have the means to pay for the home they are looking for, or the requirements necessary to receive subsidized housing.
Seniors who select independent living are able to manage their homes and provide for their personal needs on their own. An adult cannot select this lifestyle if assistance is required in custodial care with assistance in bathing, dressing, grooming, and eating.
Each independent community provides communal space (could range from a sitting room to a community center). All units have kitchens, however some communities also offer meals in a communal dining area.
Before selecting a senior independent living option, a few of the considerations you should keep in mind are security, parking convenience, availability of public transportation, and distance to the closest hospital and doctor. Once you have made your decision, you are on your way to the freedom you have been dreaming of!