Top Tips for Finding the Best Independent Living Option for You

Have you noticed a decline in your parent’s physical and mental abilities lately? Maybe your dad says that he is eating, but you notice the food piling up in the refrigerator. Or maybe you notice the house could use more attention than it’s receiving?

These are some of the classic signs that your elderly parents (or yourself) might need a little extra care and it could be time to consider a move to an environment or facility for older adults. The following article explains all you need to know about independent living and what to look for when considering new housing options for your loved one, or for yourself. 

What is Independent Living?

Independent living refers to various residential options that allow older adults to live independently while taking advantage of multiple amenities and community offerings. Independent living residential options are typically designed and arranged specifically for seniors’ budgets, needs and desires at this time in their lives.

According to a survey by ‘The Care Side’, close to 70% of senior Australians want to live in a home they own, and the size or location doesn’t matter much to them. This is where independent living options are popular, as not every home is suitable for senior folk. Bigger family homes (and with large gardens) are challenging to clean and maintain, and renovations needed to fix these types of homes may require older adults to dip into their savings and risk exhausting a chunk of their money later in life.

Independent living communities are intended for adults 55 years and older who do not require assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs – ADLs, which include mobility, personal hygiene, eating and dressing, are frequently used as benchmarks for the level of care someone may require as they age.), but are looking for a living environment that provides additional support, onsite amenities, socialising opportunities, activities, and no worries regarding maintaining a large home or property. 

Types of Independent Living Communities

Retirement Communities

These are communities for adults who are above 55 years old and who want to live in their own homes but also want facilities and amenities like a community pool, gym or clubhouse. The residents must pay a monthly fee to maintain the home and other utilities. They can also opt to purchase and lease homes or apartments in these communities. 

Independent Living Apartments

This is perfect for retirees who are seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle. The self-contained units provide many benefits such as being a secure and comfortable home without the need to maintain a large property. These senior apartments for independent living are alternative housing options, usually located within a retirement village. Here the residents can enjoy the convenience of living close to local amenities and have access to various recreational activities and lifestyle options.

Assisted Living

In this type of facility, residents live in their own space but also have access to meal preparation, personal care, cleaning services, emergency call systems and transport. Basically, anything they may need at this stage in their lives. They may pay a weekly fee in anticipation of more care as they grow older. Some residents in retirement villages may opt to have care within their retirement village homes so they don’t have to relocate. 

What to look for in an independent living community?

When scouting for an independent living arrangement that is right for yourself or your loved one, there are several factors to consider. Some people value access to care and having onsite medical facilities and nurses, while others prefer the amenities of a retirement community. Here are a few points that will help you determine which type of independent living best suits you or your loved one. 

1. Community Support and Care

If care options are important to you, start looking for easily accessible and dependable in-home medical assistance and an onsite clinic with physicians and nurses offering a full range of services. Most facilities have a nurse onsite or, at the very least, carers who stay overnight on call in case someone has an accident, stroke or injury.

Those who don’t drive or would prefer to be driven to doctor’s appointments, to church or other places should look for a place with an onsite driver or transportation facilities. 

2. Amenities

Every individual has different amenities they would prefer. Some fancy clubhouses, or other activities, and pools, a golf courses and gyms are standard features of most retirement communities. Some communities also have onsite salons and restaurants so the residents don’t have to step out unnecessarily and have everything at their fingertips.

3. Proximity to Necessities and Family

Most independent living options are in urban or suburban areas, so considering your or your loved one’s favourite activities outside the home may help you narrow down your options. Living near a child or other family member is also a criterion for most people when looking into locations. 

Finally 

Putting together a list of the essential amenities and services you or your loved one has access to when considering independent living options will help make the decision easier. Whatever facility you choose should be safe, provide enjoyable activities for the resident and give family members peace of mind that their loved one is happy.