A Closer Look: Independent Living/ Retirement Living/ Active Adult Community

Very often, the search for senior housing begins with social needs rather than physical needs. As people age, they may want to be around others with similar interests and experience. They may want freedom from the demands of maintaining a home and more time to pursue their personal interests. They may be moving to be closer to their children and grandchildren, but not so close as to be living under the same roof.

Independent living communities offer ample opportunities for social engagement and are progressively more flexible and responsive to the social demands of their clientele. They are also referred to as retirement communities, active adult communities, senior apartments or 55+ housing. These types of environments are attractive for the lifestyle they offer the mature adult, differentiating themselves through their social versatility as well as through their environmental design.

To take a closer look at Independent Living, choose a category below:

Services
Accommodations
Staff
Building/ Physical Environment
Security
Cost
Checklist
More Resources

Services:

Recreational, dining and health-related activities and services vary. Quite often, all of these services will be offered, allowing the residence the convenience of on-site access. These services may be provided through staff or through contracted services. Recreational pursuits may also include off-site ‘excursions’ that can be ongoing shopping trips or even exciting travel destinations overseas. Dining services may be as lavish as a full-service restaurant. Health services may be through an on-site clinic or a visiting physician or home health company. Keep in mind that most of these activities and services involve expenses in addition to the monthly rent.

Accommodations:

Much like any other apartment or multi-family housing units, residents have a choice of floorplans. Accommodations may include units in a multi-story building or a large, gated community with mixed housing, including single-family residences. Special features within each unit usually address physical changes and limitations. Features such as raised toilets, grab bars, or non-skid flooring lend reassurance for possible changes as one physically ages.

Staff:

Usually, an activities director will coordinate all social events, including one-on-one visits with residents who prefer more solitary pursuits. Housekeeping staff and dining services staff allow residents more free time to engage in the community. Administrative personnel address concerns with residents to assure the quality of services provided. In total, these and other staff members combine their efforts to create an environment of vitality and attention often comparable to the hospitality of fine hotels and resorts. Many companies that venture into retirement living have their strengths in the hospitality industry. When evaluating an independent living, stay attentive to the welcome you receive from all levels of staff. Inquiring about a homeowners association or resident council may also be of importance as one evaluates the responsiveness of management towards residents’ concerns and requests.

Building/ Physical Environment:

Although independent living communities are not mandated like assisted living in areas of resident care (because direct care is not provided for the residents), independent residences must adhere to the American Disabilities Act. Physical structures are therefore designed to accommodate different physical needs and limitations. Many new communities boast exceptional luxury and modern amenities, although more established residences have the benefit of a more developed community culture and social calendar. There is usually a common area on the premises to hold community-wide events and large activities. Many active adult communities also have recreational amenities, such as swimming pools or golf courses, promising hours of leisure.

The physical environment is an important indicator of quality in this setting. Meticulous attention to environmental details can signal a careful and concerned management. Evaluate the consistency of upkeep and maintenance of the property through multiple visits to the property. Consider any foreseeable physical limitations as you check out each floorplan and community layout.

Security:

One attractive feature of independent living is the security of living among peers in a congregate setting. It is common for a retirement setting to form cohesive communities of residents who watch out for each other, especially in the absence of a spouse or other family members. Large communities may be gated/ Some communities may have management living on the premises. Individual units may also have security system. Visit the community at day and at night to see if the security features, such as lights in the parking areas or outside common buildings, are sufficient for your personal safety.

Cost: $1200 to $2600 per month (more if single-family residence)

Checklists:

Is an independent living environment for you?
- Identifying immediate and long-term needs and gettting recommedations through a primary healthcare provider can help determine if independent living is the right solution.
- Find a healthcare provider in your area
Do you know your choice of providers available in your desired area?
- Providers can be classified by your preferences to narrow your choices. Identify what's important to you and your loved one.
- Search for independent living providers in your area
- Need personal assistance? Contact the experts at www.seniorsperfectsolution.com for a customized list of providers.
Have you visited the communities you are interested in?
- Taking a personal tour gives you a sense of the environment, staff and residents so you know whether it's a fit.
- Top 10 touring tips to make the most of your personal tour.
Are you ready for move-in day?
- Get all your facts in line to avoid feeling overwhelmed when the day arrives.
- Top 10 must-haves for move-in
What can you do to ease the transition of move-in?
- The first few weeks after move-in determine your satisfaction with a new home.
- Top 10 ideas about easing the transition into senior housing

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