When seniors decide to enter an independent living facility, they may be worried that they won’t be able to live as freely as they would at their previous homes. However, independent living provides seniors with their own space and privacy while offering them many amenities they may not have previously had. It also relieves them of many responsibilities so that they can enjoy their lives as they please. Seniors can maintain the lifestyle they want while getting help when needed and taking advantage of many amenities. We will look at how residents can thrive at a senior independent living facility while maintaining their daily freedom.
Independent Living vs. Assisted Living
One of the misconceptions about independent living for seniors is that it is the same as assisted living. While they may look similar, the types of care they offer differ significantly.[1] Those living in an assisted living community may need help with everyday activities. These residents may need medical care, which a staff member takes care of. At an independent living facility, help is available if a resident requests it, but medical aid is not part of the offerings. Those living at an assisted living facility will need more care and guidance than those at an independent living facility.
Maintaining the Lifestyle You Want at a Senior Independent Living Facility
There are several things that seniors can do to maintain the lifestyle they want while calling an independent living facility home.
Make Your Own Decisions
One of the cornerstones of independent living is to have the ability to make your own decisions. Whether it’s choosing your meal or your activities, you can take charge of your life and decide what you want to do. Your everyday life can be very similar to what you were accustomed to at your previous home.
Take Advantage of Amenities
One of the great things about senior independent living is the available amenities. Social gatherings, exercise classes, and whatever else is offered allow residents to shape each day and make it their own.
Stay Informed
Staying informed about what is happening at the facility allows you to communicate with others. This will help to alert you when activities are going on or if there are other things you need to know about in the community.
Ask For Help When You Need It
Many people enjoy independent senior living because they have the option to ask for help only when they need it. They are not bombarded with offers and are left alone until they need help with a task. This helps to maintain independence while having the reassurance that help is there if they need it.
Customize Your Living Space
Treat an independent living facility as you would your previous home. Customize it with photos, decorations, and safety enhancements to make your house a home.
Benefits of a Senior Independent Living Facility
Senior independent living has several benefits that allow residents to live a worry-free lifestyle.
No Maintenance Responsibilities
In an independent living community, there are no maintenance responsibilities. The community takes care of tasks like home repairs and landscaping so residents can focus on enjoying each day by doing whatever they would like.
Safe Environment
Senior independent living facilities have security measures in place to keep residents safe. These measures can include gated entrances, security staff, and surveillance cameras. These safety features can provide peace of mind for both residents and family members.
Accessible Amenities
Residents can take advantage of the amenities that are available on-site. This is especially beneficial for those who do not drive. They can access these amenities when needed without worrying about how they will get there.
Social Opportunities
Socializing is a big part of senior independent living, as many activities are offered to bring people together. A report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine shows that nearly one-fourth of adults ages 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated.[2] At an independent living facility, seniors have ample opportunity to socialize and participate in various activities. Residents can connect by learning new skills, enjoying meals together, exercising, and playing games.
Tour a Senior Independent Living Facility with Encore Communities
Encore Communities offers independent living options in Silverdale and Shoreline, Washington. Our Country Meadows location in Silverdale, WA, offers spacious one- and two-bedroom cottages. Seniors can use the full kitchens that each cottage is equipped with or take advantage of meal delivery services. Amenities include weekly housekeeping, transportation, and a community clubhouse with a heated pool and spa.
Our other independent living option is at our Laurel Cove Community in Shoreline, WA. Here, seniors can choose from a studio or one-bedroom apartment. Wi-Fi, cable, and housekeeping services are available, as well as an on-site chef to prepare nutritious meals.
Laurel Cove residents can take advantage of free transportation to shopping areas and restaurants. They can experience the freedom they want with the convenience of independent living.
Each community provides residents with wellness assessments to ensure seniors do not need a different living environment.
To learn more about the independent living options Encore Communities offers, contact us today and schedule a tour!
Sources:
[1] https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/local-care/assisted-living/assisted-living-vs-independent-living/
Dan is Vice President, Marketing of the Alumus family of companies. A Seattle native, he earned his BA in Humanities and Political Science at Evergreen State College. He started his career as a newspaper columnist, eventually transitioning into marketing and tech writing for Microsoft and several other startups. He later launched a successful creative agency focused on branding, digital marketing, and content production in Los Angeles, where he worked for several nursing and behavioral health clients, eventually becoming the National Marketing Director for one of them.
He has taught Vipassana mindfulness meditation and MBSR and spends whatever free time he has with his son snowboarding, hiking, and camping in the mountains.
