Many older adults say they want to remain independent for as long as possible. However, the decision to “age in place” isn’t as simple as it may seem. A large family home can feel empty when adult children move out. Keeping up with chores and home maintenance tasks can become overwhelming. Living alone at home can also isolate older adults from social opportunities, especially if they’re no longer driving.
Independent living communities are designed to help independent seniors avoid these challenges, combining all the benefits of residential living with a more convenient, active, and engaged lifestyle. If you enjoy the freedom of owning a home, you might not have considered relocating to an independent living community. But as you begin researching the options available, you might see that there are many advantages to community living!
Here are five things you might not know about independent living:
You don’t have to worry about home maintenance
Retirement is a time to sit back, relax, and enjoy all the things you’ve wanted to do. When you live in an independent community, you don’t have to worry about mowing the lawn, fixing leaky faucets, or cleaning the gutters. Expert landscaping and maintenance staff will take care of upkeep for you, so you can enjoy an attractive, well-kept home without the work, worry, and stress associated with maintaining a home.
New friendships are around every corner
In independent living, social opportunities abound. From get-togethers with friendly neighbors to resident outings and clubs, there’s no shortage of opportunities to stay socially connected with your peers. In a community setting, you’ll always be just steps away from fun activities and new friendships.
Pets are welcome
It’s a fact: pets enrich our lives and can even help to improve our mental and physical health. Multiple studies have found that simply being around animals can lower blood pressure, lessen anxiety, and promote happiness. Understanding the incredible benefits of pet ownership, many independent living communities allow residents to bring a small dog or cat when they move into the community.
You’ll have access to a range of amenities and services
While no two independent living communities are exactly alike, most provide access to a wide array of amenities and services that promote convenience and comfort. On-site beauty salons and barber shops, fitness centers, libraries, and restaurant-style dining are just some of the amenities you’ll find on retirement community campuses. Other services may include basic housekeeping and laundry services, and transportation services.
You’ll experience greater peace of mind
Independent living is designed for seniors who are healthy and able to live on their own. Yet if help is needed, residents can rest assured that assistance is always nearby. For example, most independent living communities have built-in safety and security features, including alert systems, to ensure a quick response if an emergency arises.
Furthermore, many independent living communities are part of continuing-care communities that offer assisted living, skilled nursing, and rehabilitative care. As you need more assistance, you can simply move to the next level of support within the same community. If you need to recover after an illness or injury, you can stay in the community’s rehabilitation center.
If you’ve been thinking about downsizing and relocating to an easier-to-maintain residence, independent living could be right for you! At Bethany Village, we have a variety of residential living options for independent older adults, including cozy cottages, villas, and apartments. As a continuing-care retirement community, Bethany Village enables residents to easily transition between levels of care as their needs change. Experience the convenient lifestyle and five-star amenities of independent living in our beautiful community. To schedule a visit, please contact us today!
