There
are now many senior living
communities growing in many places of the country. These communities are also
known by their several names: retirement community, senior living communities
or independent retirement communities. They all have one thing in common – they
are specifically designed for seniors 55 years and older.
These
unique independent communities for seniors provide apartments, while others offer
cottages, condominiums and single-family homes. Another unique feature in these
places is that the residents are seniors who do not need assistance with their
daily activities or full-time skilled nursing services.
These
communities are popular among seniors with care-free lifestyles, are currently
downsizing, or those who want to travel freely without the burden of managing a
home. These adults want a simplified lifestyle but are still socially connected
and are free from daily responsibilities like housekeeping and maintenance.
Retirement communities
There
are now many retirement communities that offer several services for its
residents. These include such items as basic housekeeping, laundry services,
and transportation for errands and appointments. The other activities offered
include social programs and access to exercise facilities.
Included
are the emergency alert systems, live-in managers in the community, and
amenities like pools, spas, clubhouses and on-site beauty salons and barber
shops.
Excluded services
One
difference these communities have with the other care3 facilities are the
absence of some familiar services. These independent living places do not
provide health care or assistance with activities of daily living (ADLS) like
medication, bathing, eating, dressing up, and others.
These
independent living places also differ from continuing care communities which
offer independent living along with multiple levels of care like an assisted
living and skilled nursing in one home.
Independent
living provides these seniors with everything they need to maintain their
independence as they age. Home maintenance, housekeeping and meal preparation
are taken care or and the social events and fitness opportunities allow them to
stay still connected with friends and neighbors.
Similar communities
Some other
living communities are high-end in nature which offers more than just a life of
leisure. These communities believe they have a whole person approach to aging
that includes four key lifestyle choices – exercise, connection, nutrition and
goals.
The
residents are given choices that are designed to find the right fit in
mind. They have 24-hour professional
staff, and they have the services that make it easy for the residents to enjoy
greater well-being.
Primary
of these services include chef-prepared meals in on-site dining venues,
scheduled transportation to local events, errands, and appointments. They have
a social calendar with daily opportunities for learning, creativity, fitness
and fun.
Independent living
Apart
from these exceptions, residents of seniors independently living on their own
have taken active decisions on improving their quality of life by choosing to live
in a secure, low maintenance homes. These elderly people who chose to live in
assisted retirement complexes usually have more care and support on the quality
of their lives.
The
difference between assisted living and independent senior living is the quality
of care. Residents of assisted living facilities require assistance with their
daily activities like medication, eating, bathing, dressing and others.
