What Is an Independent Living Community?
An independent living community, sometimes called a retirement community or senior living community, is a complex that is specially designed for individuals (typically ages 55 and up) that don’t need physical assistance. This type of community typically features residential apartments and several shared spaces, including libraries, salons, event rooms, and dining areas. The community may also include a range of services and amenities, including housekeeping services and communal activities, while still providing residents with the privacy that they need.
Independent Living Versus Assisted Living
As mentioned earlier, independent living communities refer to any complex that’s designed for individuals who don’t require physical assistance. On the other hand, assisted living communities are special facilities for individuals that need assistance from live-in nurses and caregivers.
Benefits of Independent Living
In some cases, individuals may decide to move to independent living communities as a way to minimize household tasks or just to be around other people.
One benefit of an independent living community is that it’s a perfect option for both extroverts and introverts. These communities offer plenty of social opportunities for residents who want to make new friends while those who are more introverted will benefit from having their own private apartment. Additionally, most independent living communities are secluded, but conveniently close to highly populated areas.
Most independent living communities also offer housekeeping and meal services, so you wouldn’t have to worry about doing laundry, cooking dinner, and cleaning. However, some apartments do offer kitchens or kitchenettes for individuals who enjoy cooking.
Additionally utilities, including water, electricity, and gas are included in the general apartment fees. This is not the case with standard apartments, where you will have to not only pay a rental fee, but also pay separately for gas and electricity.
Independent living communities are very secure environments. Most complexes have a security team on-site at all times, 24/7 camera surveillance, or a combination of both. If you live in an area that’s more prone to crime, moving to an independent living community could offer you better peace of mind.
Lastly, most independent living communities offer a variety of transportation options. If you have a car, you can still keep it and store it at the complex, or the community itself will have its own transportation services. Some independent living communities are also conveniently located next to bus stops.
- Social Opportunities/Pre-Planned Events & Activities
- Housekeeping
- Meal Services
- Paid Utilities
- Better Security
- Accessible Transportation
Common Amenities
Individual homes often include luxurious and elegant finishes, easily controllable HVAC units, in-house laundry facilities, private balcony or patio spaces, and safe, accessible bathrooms. The community itself will usually offer 24/7 security, transportation, walking trails or convenient access to public parks and trails, gathering rooms, pre-planned events, social spaces, meal services, and housekeeping.
Should You Join an Independent Living Community?
Moving from your own home to an independent living community is a big step, and not one that should be taken lightly.
Before making any decision, ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you currently live in a neighborhood that you consider unsafe?
- Are you looking for easier ways to make friends/join social groups?
- Is home maintenance, cleaning, and other similar tasks becoming a burden?
- Are utility fees becoming too expensive for you?
- Do you have pets? If so, does the independent living community you’re researching allow them? Are there any size or weight restrictions?
- Do you have furniture that will need to be moved or sold?
When researching independent living communities in your area, you’ll also want to pay close attention what’s included in the total monthly fee and what services and amenities are included.
Learn More About Our 55+ Community Today
Are you thinking about relocating to an independent living community? Find your new home at Shelby Park Manor. We’re an independent living community designed for individuals ages 55 and up. We have several units with different layouts, all of which feature elegant finishes, in-house laundry facilities, access to beautiful natural surroundings including walking trails, 24/7 security, excellent transportation options, including covered carports, and more.
If you’d be interested in learning more about our independent living community, please fill out our contact form today to schedule your tour.
