For many senior citizens, independent living communities are an excellent living situation that allows them to maintain their independence while enjoying amenities such as organized outings and social events, laundry and cleaning services, and the comfort of a community of their peers.
If you’ve been considering moving to an independent living community, but aren’t sure if it is the right option for you, here are a few questions to ask yourself to help you make the decision.
- What kind of lifestyle do I want? One of the most significant benefits of an independent living community is that they offer ample opportunity to socialize with people your age who share your interests. If you would enjoy beautiful walking paths and going on group outings, an independent living community would be an excellent fit for you.
- What are my health and mobility limitations? The main difference between independent living and assisted living is the level of clinical support and care given. If you are still driving, taking care of your personal hygiene, and managing your own medications, independent living is a great choice. If you think you would benefit from having help with any of those things, assisted living would probably be the better fit.
- What might my future needs be? Thinking about what you will need several years down the road can help you make the choice between living situations. Many independent living communities offer a continuum of care and can transition you into an assisted living facility when the time comes. However, not all independent living situations offer a continuum of care, so be sure to consider this when weighing your options.