The Pros and Cons of Senior Independent Living

The Pros and Cons of Independent Living

The time has finally come. After all those years of working nine to five, you’re ready to retire. You’re embarking on a wonderful new season of life, where you can enjoy less responsibility and much more fun. The question is: what’s the best way to achieve the lifestyle you want in your retirement years?

For many, the initial instinct is to live at home. And why not? It is, after all, where you’ve built a lifetime of memories, where you’re comfortable and where you feel you belong. But do you really have less responsibility there? Do you really have all the social opportunities you want?

An increasingly popular alternative for seniors is independent living. Before you nix the idea, let’s be clear: independent living is not nursing home living. In fact, it’s designed specifically for active retirees just like you. Let’s take a closer look.

Independent Living Defined

Independent living is a type of senior living that offers a lifestyle choice for retirees who require little daily assistance, but seek a vibrant social community free of the hassle of chores and home upkeep.

The Pros

Choice of living options – In most communities you can pick from condominiums, apartments, free-standing cottages or single-family homes, whichever suits you best.

Carefree living – Forget home upkeep and yard maintenance because these services are typically included in your monthly fee as are restaurant-style dining, basic housekeeping, laundry services and transportation.

The good life – A pool, fitness center and onsite beauty and barber salons are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the amenities many independent living communities offer.

Keep connected – Social opportunities are one of biggest draws for seniors in independent living as you have a range of educational and enrichment programs as well as organized activities and outings to enjoy.

Ease of transition – In many cases, independent living communities, such as ours, have a full continuum of care that includes assisted living and/or memory care on the same campus to support your evolving health needs while remaining in familiar surroundings.

The Cons

No onsite medical care – This is not typically offered in communities that are strictly independent living. So, if you need assistance with activities of daily living or have serious health issues, this may not be the best fit. Downsizing stresses – It can be hard to leave your home and the process of moving to a new, unfamiliar place is overwhelming for some. However, there’s much to look forward to and knowing how wonderful your retirement will be in your new independent living community can help. The cost – We know budget is always a big part of the equation. While less than other senior living options, some independent living communities require an entrance fee which can be costly. Others, such as Richfield Living, offer monthly rental agreements which include the services and amenities listed above as well as utilities. Also, consider your total cost of living at home when comparing monthly expenses to independent living. Beyond your mortgage or rent, at home you also pay for food, utilities, home maintenance, property taxes, insurance and entertainment. And in addition to the dollar amount, make sure to factor in the value of the positive impact on your quality of life. For more information on the independent living options you’ll find at Richfield Living, contact us today.