Independent Living Facility: A Better Option for Seniors

Aging in this modern era has tremendously changed brought about by various options made available

for seniors to spend the rest of their lives. Because the senior population is growing at a fast rate, many

living facilities are built to accommodate specific level of elder’s conditions. For seniors who value their

independence and are open to explore other possibilities life has still to offer, independent living facility

could be right place to settle in.

Can all seniors stay in independent living facility?

Independent living facility is a type of retirement community that offer different types of residences for

seniors who are generally in good health and do not need professional assistance or supervision of their

daily life activities. Seniors who are aged 55 and above, with no mobility problems and do not require

significant medical care, are welcome in this type of facility.

What types of services and amenities does an independent living facility offer?

Seniors take pride in being autonomous and active. This and more can be offered by independent living

facility. The type of housing can range from apartments to two- or three-bedroom units that can be

rented or bought. Different facilities offer different amenities but typically, an independent living facility

offers the following services and conveniences:

Three meals a day. You are relieved of the burden of preparing meals three times a day and

seven days a week. They usually serve healthy food to meet seniors’ nutritional requirements.

Home maintenance and housekeeping. Freedom from cleaning and maintaining a house can

give you more time for relaxation and other recreational activities.

Transportation to local shops and doctor’s appointment. If you need to buy something, have a

hair cut or visit your doctor for a regular checkup, you can arrange for transportation, which

more often than not is included in the package.

Social activities. Inside the independent living facility is a social network where seniors have the

opportunity to meet people of their age and share common experiences. There are various

clubs, gatherings and organized activities that encourage seniors to actively participate in.

Sports and exercise avenues. Some independent living facilities, especially the high class ones

have gym, swimming pool, tennis court, golf club and other sports facilities for seniors to enjoy.

There are also facilities that provide an open space for gardening activities.

How costly is staying in an independent living facility?

The cost of residing an independent living facility is relative to the former lifestyle you are enjoying.

Weighing all financial aspects such as home maintenance, meals, transportation and other expenses,

independent living option may be even less expensive. Nevertheless, if you are considering an

independent living facility, typical housing cost, whether rent or buy depends on the size and location of

the facility. Even within the complex, prices range if your residence has a premium view, access to a

patio, or is easily accessible to many amenities of the facility.

You also have to be prepared for the entrance fee, which is, most of the time, non-refundable. Monthly

rate depends on the amenities covered by the facility, which typically include the following services:

Monthly rent including utilities

The type of meals prepared per day

Housekeeping

Laundry

Simple maintenance like repairs, plumbing services and others

Scheduled transportation needs

Emergency and security features

The overall financial implications of staying in an independent living facility can be evaluated by

comparing the cost associated with living in your own home. Some of the attributes you need to

consider are:

Mortgage, rent and tax of your house

Utility, cable and internet bills

Food prepared at home in daily basis as well as dining out

Entertainment such as going to the movie theaters and concerts

Transportation expenses

Home maintenance and housekeeping

Security and safety costs

These, however, are just tangible costs which should be carefully weighed against the intangible benefits

and conveniences an independent living facility offers; intangible benefits that can’t be compared to any

financial amount.

Aging at home, these days, may not be the most viable option for seniors. With an independent living

facility, a new world opens for them to enjoy a better quality of senior life.

About the Author:

Kristina Brown, a proficient provider of care for Home Care Arizona has been passionately involved in

the endeavor. She wants to share insightful information about it. You can learn more about us by visiting

us.