Moving into an independent living community is a big step for many older adults. Luckily, plenty of options are available for those who want to enjoy the benefits of senior housing without worrying about maintaining their home.
But how do you find the perfect place? Here are things you should consider when making this critical decision.
Budget
If you are a senior and find that your driving skills have declined or you frequently rely on friends or family to give you rides, it may be time to move to independent living in St. Augustine, FL. This type of community is an excellent option for seniors who want to spend more time enjoying life and less time taking care of chores. Moving to independent living may involve downsizing your current home. This could mean selling items you no longer need, or that would take up too much space in a new apartment. If you are moving to an independent living community, remember that the monthly price often includes more than rent. You might also be paying for utilities, access to amenities, housekeeping, and laundry services.
Location
A significant decision you or your loved one may need to make when choosing independent living is the location. This could be because of proximity to family members or a desire to live in a particular city. Generally speaking, separate living facilities are in urban, suburban, or rural settings and have a variety of atmospheres. Some are smaller and more tightly knit, while others have a college-like atmosphere with amenities like libraries, dining options, and fitness centers. Another thing to consider is the type of activities that are offered. Many independent living communities have group events, social gatherings, and educational workshops for residents to participate in. Additionally, some may provide physical wellness classes like yoga, tai chi, or walking clubs. Often, these facilities also have onsite general stores and community gardens.
Amenities
Independent living communities come in many shapes and sizes. Some offer more amenities than others, but they all provide the same things: a relaxing environment, freshly prepared meals, and housekeeping services.
Some facilities may also have a salon, library, gardens on-site, exercise classes, or bus trips to local attractions. These can make a massive difference to seniors who feel socially isolated and lonely, as they can quickly build connections with their peers through these activities. It would help if you also asked about staffing and care options at each community, as these vary across facilities. Ask about how the staff is hired and what their qualifications are. It’s also essential to find out if the facility has onsite healthcare.
Size
Independent living communities provide seniors with a wide range of residential options. Some include studio apartments, one- and two-bedroom apartments, and villas with garage space and storage. All of these are grouped into the same category of retirement community housing, but each option is slightly different from the next in terms of service offerings and cost. Knowing the exact size of an apartment is essential before you decide. Many older adults moving into independent living will have to downsize their belongings, and the size of the new home can help determine which items they can keep. Similarly, a bigger apartment might be preferable for those who entertain visitors regularly. This would allow them to host parties and events without feeling cramped in their residence.
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