Is Independent Living for You?

Carrie was in her 80s when she lost her husband. Her grown children lived across the country, and she felt alone in her now empty house. Healthy and outgoing, Carrie was ready to take the next step in her life's journey. Carrie's daughter-in-law, Bonnie Garner, recalls, "Carrie's children wanted her to move in with one of them. Carrie discussed her options with the family, but it was apparent that she had already made up her mind -- she was moving to an Independent Living community."

An Independent Living community is ideal for seniors who can lead an independent lifestyle but do not wish to do it alone. These healthy retirees require minimal or no assistance, medical or otherwise. An independent living community is a wonderful place for seniors to be with others that share similar interests. Recreational activities are planned by the community. Furthermore, it is equipped with standard safety features to make it easier for seniors to get around. Independent living communities acknowledge that residents are aging, while honoring their need for independence.

Carrie was able to select the independent living community option because she was in good health and financially sound. She enjoyed the company of good friends who had also moved into the community. Housekeeping services managed the burden of maintaining her living quarters. Although she had a kitchen of her own, she regularly enjoyed meals at the community's on-site five-star restaurant. She continued to be "independent" but did so without being "alone."

How do you know if an independent living facility is right for you or your loved one? While Carrie was confident in her choice, selecting the right care option can be overwhelming. Nicole Twoey-Cieslewicz is a licensed registered occupational therapist who focuses on helping her clients maintain their independence as long as possible. She acknowledges "as the elderly live longer, there is more of a chance they will need continuing long term care." She recommends answering the following questions to determine whether or not an independent living facility is appropriate for you:

Can you perform basic ADLs (activities of daily living)?
In an independent living facility, seniors are as independent as possible in their personal care, dressing, and feeding, while other services are provided for them. At The Elms in Westerly, RI, residents enjoy gourmet meals, complimentary housekeeping, transportation, and laundry service. The Elms describes its community as "the perfect solution for those who don't need a nursing home, but may be a little overwhelmed trying to manage things at home." Likewise, Sunrise of Plano in Plano, TX, is ideal "for seniors who want to maintain their rich and rewarding life without the responsibilities of running a household."

What is your desired abode?
Independent living communities come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you're interested in an apartment, a condominium, a townhouse, or a cottage, there is an independent living facility that is right for you.

In what recreational activities are you interested?
Today's seniors do more than play shuffleboard. Independent care facilities offer residents a variety of recreational activities--wellness programs, day trips, nature trails, and much more. Many communities are within walking distances of cultural hubs. Located in San Antonio, TX, Brighton Gardens is close to shopping, theaters, golf courses, restaurants, museums, churches, and a variety of other venues of interest to seniors.

Do you want the facility to assist you when you are no longer able to care for yourself?
When Carrie suffered a debilitating stroke, her independent living community had the appropriate medical services to take over her care. This type of security is something that must be determined up front.

What is covered by the monthly rent? Is an entrance fee required?
Some independent living facilities charge an entrance fee plus a monthly rent. Others, like The Cottages at Carrington Place in Pittsburg, KS, rent maintenance-free apartments month to month with no costly up-front buy-in. Knowing your financial situation is vital in making a decision about independent living.

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