In an effort to remain independent, some seniors are provided with a sense of security when a trusted friend of family member makes daily telephone calls or visits. They are secure in the knowledge that if they are unreachable that emergency services will be called. In the absence of a family, friend, or neigbour, seniors can enlist the assistance of a medical alarm service provider (who will perform the same function).

A senior who is unable to prepare meals can make arrangements with Meals on Wheels to deliver to their homes.  For those that cannot drive, there are now on-line grocery shopping and banking websites.  For those that are not internet savy, there are many agencies available that will arrange anywhere from three-hour visits to 24 x 7 care at home.

Personal support workers offer companionship, assistance with medications, laundry and housework assistance, personal care and hygiene, restorative/activation activities, and home management activities.

There are many service providers (some are volunteers) that are also available to assist elderly adults with grocery shopping, escorting, transportation, yard chores, and reading the mail. The provider can also network, link, and advocate on behalf of the person with social services and health care providers.

There are also several products available to use at home.  Bathrooms can be equipped with shower chairs or bathtub rails.  For mobility, there are several options depending on the health of the person – walkers, wheelchairs, scooters, canes, bed canes, etc.  In the kitchen, you can use an electric jar opener for those afflicted with arthritis of other ailments.

Elderly independent living allows seniors to enhance the quality of life.

• 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!

This can be an option of finding a retirement home (or a resort community) for those that are reaching the age of retirement and want to get a start on owning a residence that they will eventually retire to. The attractions may include facilities such as sports (golf or tennis); ocean, country of mountain views; exercise rooms; and a variety of clubs and interest groups; other cultural activities such as, art classes, dancing, woodworking, ceramics, chorus, etc.  Some providers also include a clubhouse or country club with dining facilities, a marina, and a beach.

Individuals may opt to live in individual single-family homes, condominiums, town houses or suites in high-rise towers.

This option is favorable for those seniors who do not require assistance.  For those that need some help, it can be costly depending on the level of care required.

If a senior requires assistance, they may opt to select an option similar to unassisted living that also offers personalized assistance, supportive service and compassionate care (in the area, interest, or location of their choice).  Most facilities offer personalized assistance, supportive services and compassionate care in a professionally managed, carefully designed, community setting. It’s the perfect alternative for seniors who can no longer live on their own at home, yet don’t need 24-hour, complex medical supervision.

Without peer pressure, seniors are provided services such as bathing, dressing and medication reminders. They focus on wellness and keeping residents as independent as possible by providing a tailored plan of assistance. The seniors continue to enjoy beautifully appointed living spaces, delicious meals, engaging in social activities, transportation, and personalized assistance and care. It’s the assistance senior’s need with all of the independence they want.

Senior independent living provides seniors needs with all of the independence that they desire and require!