Independent Living Facility: The Right Choice and the Right Time

As people reach the retirement age or even before it, they should start thinking of modifying

their lifestyle and living accommodations. Being old in this era is not just sitting on a rocking

chair on the porch reading a book. The world of seniors has dramatically changed with a lot of

options for leisure and recreation.

While still an active senior with no mobility and health issues, choosing for an independent

living facility might just be the perfect option for you. But when is it time to move out?

1. You or together with a spouse live alone and your house once filled with children is

empty and too big for you or with your spouse.

2. You value your independence and living with children might entail limitations.

3. Maintenance of your house is proving to be more difficult and the idea of doing

household chores, which you have been doing all your life, is appalling.

4. Neighbors are difficult to associate with and friends have relocated with their children.

5. Your community doesn’t have much recreational options and wellness services are not

easily accessible

Once you have decided to move to an independent living facility, your next concern would be

where to go. Choosing the right one involves a great deal of thinking and planning and it is

better to be cautious than to have a costly regret.

1. Inform your family about your decision and ask them to help you out in looking for the

right independent living facility.

2. Check your financial capabilities and other resources. There are various types of living

accommodation within the facility ranging from budget to luxury. There are options for

renting and buying. You also need to include concerns of entrance and miscellaneous

fees. Needless to say, choose an arrangement within your means because you might be

tempted to get one with all the promise of comfort.

3. Tour the facility with a loved one and see how things are going on inside. Check the

amenities, services and the programs offered by the facility. Particularly look for

housekeeping options and meals. Entertainment and activity programs should jive with

your interest and preference.

4. Look into safety and security concerns of the house and of the whole facility. Is it

equipped with security monitors or are accommodations senior-friendly? Senior-friendly

in the sense that floors are skid-free, bathrooms, toilet and bedrooms are furnished

with grab bars.

5. You should also consider the future and check the regulations of the facility if they cater

for a live-in assistant if the need arises. You may be very active in the present but you

may require a little help with your daily tasks in the future.

Aging in an independent living facility is a great alternative to staying at home. All you need to

have is an open mind about the changes that could take place as you explore your new world.

You can live your life to the fullest in the company of new friends and peers that share the same

experiences you have.

Kristina Brown, a proficient provider of care for Senior Care Resources has been passionately

involved in the endeavor. She wants to share insightful information about it. You can learn

more about independent living by visiting us.