Championing Independent Senior Living
July 14, 2023 | Assisted Living, Mary Schwartz Summit, Resources
In July, we celebrate the independence of our nation but it’s also a great reminder of how important the idea of freedom is in our day-to-day lives. We appreciate being able to make our own choices and live on our own terms – and that doesn’t change as we grow older. Many seniors are resilient and self-reliant and want to stay that way, but they may need a little assistance; independent living is often the ideal solution.
What is independent living?
While there are many different types of independent living options, they all have a common purpose: to provide housing for adults 55 years or older with the opportunity to meaningfully engage with a connected community. In addition to residential accommodation, independent living communities will provide:
- Concierge service to facilitate personal needs such as mail or reservations
- Restaurants and communal cafes led by professional chefs
- Health care coordination like doctor check-ins or home care
- Recreational activities including wellness programs, culture outings, and clubs
- Transportation to shopping and scheduled appointments
- Maintenance including housekeeping, repairs, and landscaping
- Safety with secure entrances, emergency response systems, and staff 24/7
Independent living doesn’t help with daily living activities such as bathing and dressing, eating, or mobility.
What should I know before moving into an independent living community?
Before packing up the house, here are four questions to ask.
- Are you ready for the change? Moving out of a house and into an apartment-like setting will be an adjustment. The benefits of community living mean there are always people around – a very different environment from living alone in a home surrounded by a yard.
- What activities are important to you? If you like cultural events, you may want a place with a calendar that includes outings to local museums and plays. If you are physically active, you may want a location near hiking trails or with a gym.
- What’s included in the price? Ask to understand what your monthly rate includes. Some communities have a flat fee with listed services provided while others charge according to needs. Be sure to ask specific questions like “does cleaning include laundry?”
- What happens if more help becomes needed? Over time, you may require more assistance than independent living can provide. It’s important to understand if the community has options to support your quality of life without you needing to leave the life you’ve established there.
Independent living is a perfect choice for seniors who want to age in a vibrant community. Kline Galland’s Mary Schwartz Summit champions retirement living for active seniors who can socialize with each other while relaxing in the privacy of their own spacious apartment. Most importantly, The Summit offers assisted and memory care so that residents can maintain their quality of life in the community they call home. Learn more about Independent Living at The Summit.
