Independent Living FAQ: A Guide to Independent Living for Seniors
What is independent living for seniors? Independent living is a popular housing option that allows older adults to live independently in their own apartments or homes. Independent living communities offer a variety of amenities and services, such as dining, activities, and transportation. They also provide opportunities for social interaction and engaging in favorite hobbies or learning new ones, often in a secure, gated setting.
What is the average cost of senior independent living?
The average cost of senior independent living varies depending on the contract type, location and amenities offered. It can cost as little as $1,500 a much or as much as $10,000 a month, with options for every preference and budget. Important to consider is what is included in the average cost of independent living. Typically, amenities can include:
- Dining options
- Fitness centers with trainers
- Swimming pools
- Putting greens or full golf courses, pickleball courts, walking trails, and other outdoor amenities
- Lawn care and snow removal
- Home maintenance
- Utilities as well as TV and internet
- Housekeeping and laundry services
With these various services in mind, older adults often find it’s more cost effective to move into an independent living community than it is to stay in their old family home, even if the mortgage is already paid off.
What is the difference between assisted living and independent living?
Assisted living is a type of senior care that provides help with daily activities. Residents of assisted living communities typically live in their own apartments or rooms and receive assistance with tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating. Assisted living communities also offer a variety of amenities and services, such as housekeeping, laundry, and transportation.
Independent living communities are for those who can live entirely independently, and don’t need any assistance with daily living.
When should you move from independent to assisted living?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer for knowing when someone needs to move from independent living to assisted living. Often it is a spouse or adult child who realizes that the resident can no longer safely live on their own without assistance.
What types of independent living housing is available?
Almost any form of housing is available in independent living communities, from studio apartments to large villas. Here are some examples:
- Apartments: These range from studios to spacious three-bedroom units, often featuring full kitchens, balconies or patios, and modern finishes.
- Cottages or villas: These are typically detached or semi-detached single-family homes, offering more privacy and space, often with private garages and outdoor living areas.
- Townhomes: These multi-level homes share walls with neighbors but tend to offer more living space than apartments, usually with private entrances and possibly even attached garages.
The specific housing options vary by community. Feel free to explore the options available at an Acts community.
What amenities are available?
Modern independent living communities are known for their extensive amenities. They are not what you may be picturing in your mind when you think of such a community. Typical amenities include:
- Dining: Multiple dining venues, offering a variety of cuisines and flexible meal plans.
- Fitness and Wellness: State-of-the-art fitness centers, swimming pools, group exercise classes, and wellness programs.
- Social and recreational: Clubs, activities, events, performing arts centers, libraries, game rooms, and more.
- Services: Salon and spa services, transportation, concierge services, and housekeeping.
- Outdoor spaces: Beautifully landscaped grounds, walking trails, gardens, and outdoor seating areas.
What are independent living apartments like?
Independent living apartments tend to be designed for comfort, convenience, and style. The senior apartments featured at Acts typically feature:
- Open floor plans: For ease of movement and a spacious feel.
- Full kitchens: With modern appliances and ample storage.
- Private balconies or patios: For enjoying the outdoors.
- Ample closet space: To accommodate your wardrobe.
- Washer/dryer hookups or on-site laundry facilities: For convenience.
Some communities may also offer features like walk-in showers, upgraded finishes, and smart home technology.
Do I have to eat there?
No, you do not have to eat at the community. However, many communities offer dining plan options.
Can I bring my pet?
Some communities allow pets, but there may be restrictions on the type and size of pet that is allowed. You should specifically ask the community you are interested in.
Can I bring my car?
Most communities allow residents to bring their cars. Some housing options offer private garages, while others have parking lots. There may be a parking fee depending on the community.
What if I don't know anyone at the community?
Senior living communities are designed to support social interaction. Acts as an example works hard to foster a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. They offer numerous opportunities to meet new people and make friends, such as:
- Social events and activities: Happy hours, themed dinners, game nights, clubs, and more.
- Shared amenities: Dining venues, fitness centers, pools, and lounges provide natural settings for socializing.
- Resident-led groups and committees: Opportunities to get involved and connect with others based on shared interests.
- New resident welcome programs: Help you get acclimated and introduce you to your neighbors.
How do I choose a community?
There are a few things to consider when choosing an independent living community, such as:
- Location
- Amenities
- Services
- Cost
- Size
- Atmosphere
- Health (some communities, called Continuing Care Retirement Communities) offer health services such as assisted living right on campus
Here are some tips for choosing an Acts community:
- Consider your priorities: What's most important to you? Location, amenities, housing type, budget, or specific programs?
- Visit the communities: Take tours, talk to residents, and get a feel for the atmosphere.
- Ask questions: About pricing, contracts, services, and anything else that's important to you.
- Review the contract carefully: Make sure you understand the terms and conditions.
- Talk to a financial advisor: To assess the financial implications of your decision.
What are the disadvantages to independent living?
Independent living is not for everyone. Some seniors may prefer to live in less of a community environment. Others may not be able to afford the cost, or would prefer to stay in their house for as long as physically and financially possible.
Learn More
Independent living is a great option for seniors who want to live independently in a supportive, engaging environment. If you are considering independent living, be sure to do your research and choose a community that is right for you.
Acts oversees 28 revered communities across the East Coast, all offering health services on campus. Explore your options now.
