What Is Independent Living for Seniors?

According to new data, the life expectancy for older adults is on the rise – it has jumped by 10 years since 1960 and, by the year 2060, it is expected to rise again, from 79 to 85. Also in the last 10 years, the population of seniors in the U.S. has increased; by 2060, it’s expected to double from 49 million to 98 million. With so many adults entering and living longer during their golden years, it is natural that many families are looking for solutions and support for the challenges of the aging journey.

For many older adults, the idea of their retirement years brings thoughts of free time to enjoy their favorite hobbies, spend time with friends and tighten bonds with family. However, the burdens and responsibilities of maintaining a home can add stress and strain for those who want a more leisurely but active lifestyle.

Senior independent living is often a perfect solution for seniors and their families. Designed specifically for active seniors, an independent living community for seniors allows residents to maintain their privacy and independence, while offering services and amenities to add support and enjoyment to each and every day. 

When considering independent living for seniors, it is important to know what makes senior independent living different from other senior communities and to understand the benefits of senior independent living.

What is Independent Living?

While there are many differences between independent living communities, there are also common traits they all share. In general, independent living communities offer resources for residents to live an active lifestyle, while taking care of all maintenance, cleaning and repairs for their living space. Residences in independent living communities range from apartments to duplexes, townhomes or condos and they come in a variety of styles, sizes and floor plans. Independent living amenities and services are designed to make life easier, more convenient and more enjoyable. Most communities cover things like security, housekeeping, dining plans and linen services, and it is common for amenities to include pools, beauty salons, art studios, transportation services and security services.

With so many amenities and benefits, is independent living the right choice for all seniors? While independent living may sound like the perfect opportunity for both freedom and support, it is not the right option for all seniors. Independent living is designed to meet the needs of seniors who:

• Do not require assistance with the activities of daily living (ADLs)
• Do not need regular medical assistance
• Live alone or feel isolated and would like to increase their social connections
• Desire the safety of an on-site staff who can provide help if needed
• Are retired and are ready to let go of household maintenance and upkeep
• Want help with cooking and home upkeep, but who are not yet ready to give up their independent lifestyle

Benefits of Independent Living

The amazing amenities available at independent living communities are often the biggest attraction for seniors and their families. When considering independent living in general, or when exploring a specific community offering independent living for seniors, it is important to understand the exact amenities offered and which ones are the right fit. While not all independent living communities offer the full range of services and amenities, most offer at least one of these common options:

Meals

Healthy eating is key for healthy living during the retirement years! There are often different dining packages available to residents in independent living, and all packages will include meals prepared by on-site chefs and approved by registered dietitians. Some independent living communities offer meal credit programs that provide a certain number of meals per month, while others offer an à la carte approach. Either way, mealtimes in the dining room take the stress out of shopping and cooking, with the added benefit of socializing with neighbors and friends.

Maintenance

For some seniors, the greatest benefit to moving into an independent living community is leaving behind the cleaning, yard work and daily upkeep involved in maintaining a home. It is common for independent living communities to offer weekly home or apartment cleanings, along with full laundry service. If something breaks in the living space, the community will call an on-site technician to make the repairs!

Fitness Programs

Staying active and healthy in retirement means keeping physically fit! Many independent living communities offer exercise classes, programs and equipment for seniors at every fitness level. Things like yoga, tai chi, walking clubs, water aerobics and weight training are popular options.

Recreational Activities

The freedom offered in retirement makes it a great time of life to try new activities and learn new things. This is why independent living communities offer activities for every interest. From hobbies like cooking and painting to social gatherings at happy hours or trips to see local attractions, residents at independent living communities are able to keep their calendars as full as they like! Other common activities in independent living include movie nights, game nights, guest speakers, book clubs and holiday parties.

Socialization

According to the American Public Health Association, socialization improves mood, cognition and memory recall and is associated with healthy behaviors, including exercise. This means it is important for seniors to stay social and engaged during retirement. In independent living communities, common spaces like fireside living rooms, naturally lit sunrooms and comfortable patios are great places to catch up with friends and family. Fitness centers and beauty salons keep residents looking and feeling their best, without the hassle of driving and facing crowds. At Sugar Grove Senior Living, residents enjoy restaurant-style dining, a library, a movie theater, a fitness room and a computer room!

About Sugar Grove

At Sugar Grove Senior Living, we are committed to helping you build and maintain a life you love. We encourage you to maintain friendships and social circles, the hobbies and pastimes you find meaningful, and your own personal style. We will customize a plan to your unique needs and make it easier to live the way you want. Sugar Grove offers independent living, assisted living and memory care services designed to meet each senior’s needs for physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellness. The country setting of our independent living, assisted living and memory care community in Plainfield, Ind., offers a cheerful, inclusive environment that’s physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally stimulating.

Ready to learn more about Sugar Grove? Contact us today to set up a tour or to discuss more about our community and our amenities! Want to speak on the phone? We are ready for your call at 317-933-8730!