Maintaining our own homes becomes more challenging as we age. A study exploring home maintenance challenges for seniors noted that, on average, one hour of every day is spent on home maintenance! While yard work, exterior painting, and heavy cleaning may never have been a lot of fun, they can present a serious danger to our health as we age.
This is just one reason why moving to an independent living apartment is a good idea for many seniors. You can enjoy the privacy and coziness of your own home without any of the hard work!
In this post, we will explore independent living options and how they can help you get the very best out of your golden years.
Understanding Independent Living
Independent living communities differ from assisted living, nursing, and memory care communities. They do not generally provide caretaker support. Instead, they offer safe retirement home designs that meet the needs of independent seniors.
Plus, they also offer a range of amenities we will explore in more detail. Independent living communities focus on comfortable senior living by providing a maintenance-free environment for elderly residents.
What to Expect in an Independent Living Apartment
The exact features of an independent living apartment will vary depending on the community. But there are some common elderly housing features you can look out for when making your decision.
Maintenance-Free Living
Unlike homeowners who must maintain their homes whatever their age, independent living residents do not have to lift a finger. If one day there’s no hot water or a window catch breaks, simply call management and they will arrange for the maintenance crew to fix it. The maintenance team also carries out regular preventative work to keep your home in tip-top condition.
Another feature many seniors love is enjoying outdoor spaces without doing yard work. The lawns are regularly mowed, gardens are tended to, and trees and shrubs are pruned in line with the seasons. All you have to do is admire them as you stroll around the grounds or enjoy an alfresco cup of coffee.
Housekeeping Services
We all want to have a clean home. When our home is spick and span, we don’t think twice about inviting friends over. But when keeping it clean becomes a struggle, we can put our physical and emotional health at risk.
According to News-Medical.Net, decluttering homes reduces fall risk by 26% – a huge advantage for seniors. Independent living communities arrange regular housekeeping services to help seniors keep their homes clean and clutter-free.
Modern Conveniences
No doubt, in your own home, you have acquired all the amenities you need to make life easier. Moving to a smaller independent living apartment could be daunting, as you may fear saying goodbye to the appliances you love.
However, there’s no need to worry. Each independent living apartment has everything you need to thrive. That includes a fully-equipped kitchen to prepare delicious home-cooked meals. Your laundry is taken care of, so there’s no need to worry about having a home laundry room.
Residents are also encouraged to bring their own furniture to make their new home feel like home from day one.
More Free Time
According to Homes and Gardens magazine, we should all be spending 7 hours a week cleaning and maintaining our homes. As we get older and tasks take longer, that means spending the equivalent of an entire working day in mundane pursuits. It’s easy to see why moving into an independent living apartment truly gives seniors the gift of time.
You can put that time to good use by doing things you enjoy and exploring new hobbies and interests you may not have had time to pursue in the past.
Senior Apartment Amenities
Outside of the actual independent living apartments, senior living communities provide outstanding amenities that can enhance senior quality of life.
Dining Services
If you don’t feel like cooking, you can head down to the on-site dining room. Restaurant-style meals are prepared by a team of chefs who understand local tastes and senior nutritional needs. You know you’re getting the very best food for your health without sacrificing taste.
Additionally, many seniors have dietary requirements due to conditions like diabetes and celiac disease. Independent living communities can cater to your needs, giving you good nutrition that protects your health. You can enjoy your meals in good company, making every meal time a treat.
Activities and Events
Independent living communities have communal areas that are used for daily activities and events. Some popular activities include:
- Guest lectures
- TV and movie nights
- Outings to local attractions and shopping and dining options
- Live performances
- Arts, crafts, and games
There is always something to do, so there is no need to be bored or lonely in a senior living community!
Wellness Programs
Our golden years may seem like a time to slow down, but in fact, they’re the perfect time to boost our fitness! However, wellness is not just about exercise. It’s also about making social connections that truly enrich our lives.
Independent living communities often feature:
- Exercise classes
- Social activities
- Stimulating intellectual exercises
While these communities do not have medical services on-site, they can assist you in getting to all your medical appointments. Discuss your needs with management and see what arrangements can be put in place.
Concierge Services
Another resort-style amenity offered at some independent living communities is a concierge service. This 24/7 team can help you book tickets, make dinner reservations, shop online, and more.
Explore Independent Living Options at SummerHouse Beau Ridge
Nestled in the heart of Ridgeland, MS is a stunning community featuring independent living apartments that delight and protect. Our retirement home designs help you get the best out of each day. They include all the conveniences and safety features you need while offering plenty of room for your personal possessions.
In addition to comfortable homes, our community provides a range of engaging activities in great company. Take your health and fitness to the next level as you join in with our wellness and activity programs. Best of all, enjoy your own home with none of the effort!
Schedule a tour today and pick out your independent living apartment.
