What is Independent Living?

Independent living is designed for seniors who are completely independent not needing any assistance with daily activities but desiring a more social living atmosphere without the labor and stress of maintaining a home and preparing meals.

Independent living is usually an apartment or even a hotel style setting also called a senior living community where there is a 24 hour staff and large common spaces. A large focus of independent living is keeping seniors engaged and active with many social opportunities and outings. There may be a dining room, arts and crafts room, fitness center, library, even a beauty parlor, chapel and many other common areas. Some independent living facilities even have large gardens and outdoor spaces.

Many seniors choose independent living compared to staying in their own homes because independent living offers such a stress free active lifestyle. There is also a huge relief of the stress of homeownership and the everyday labor of maintaining a home. Besides this there is the added safety assurance of a secure building designed with seniors in mind, and 24 hour staff there if you need help. Many seniors choose independent living in a CCRC (continuing care retirement community) knowing that if they begin to lose their independence, a higher level of care is available without having to move.