What Are Some Things To Know About Independent Living Communities?

In terms of senior living, seniors who don't need around-the-clock care have the choice of living in an independent living community. They will often have their own apartment or condo, with the benefit of lower rent and on-site amenities for seniors only. Here are some things to know about living in these types of communities.

Independent Communities Are Not For Medically-Fragile Seniors

One important thing to note is that unlike some of the other senior living options, independent living communities are not meant to provide you with regular medical care. In fact, living in one of these communities should be for the other benefits, and not for nursing care. If you are someone that needs help with daily living, like toileting, dressing, and helping you get out of bed in the morning, you might be better off with an assisted living community. Some independent living communities might have a nurse on staff, but typically only for urgent situations.

They Are Excellent for Social Living

If you are living alone in your family home after your spouse passed, an independent living community can be the perfect option for you. It allows you to still live on your own in an apartment or condominium, but you also get the benefit of being around other seniors. These communities are only for retirees and senior residents, so you might feel more comfortable being outside and social with your neighbors. It is not unlikely that you will meet lifelong friends in one of these communities, as you are surrounded by people who might share all of your same interests.

Additional Amenities May be Included

While it doesn't have all the amenities and services an assisted living community would provide you, independent living communities still do a great job at providing you with unique amenities. For example, many of them offer dining services, either meals delivered right to your apartment or an on-site restaurant where you can go to have meals with others living in the community. This can be helpful if you live independently, but don't have the energy or know-how to make your own meals. There may also be transportation services offered, such as shuttles that bring you and your friends to local restaurants, doctor's appointments, or shopping malls.

You Will Likely Pay Out-of-Pocket

Since this is not an assisted living community or nursing home and not related to medical care, insurance policies most often do not cover the costs of living in such community. They can sometimes be pricey, so make sure you shop around and decide what your monthly budget is when looking for an independent living apartment. You can also choose to share an apartment with someone else if you don't mind having a roommate and want to save on your living costs. Contact different types of communities, such as BrightStar Care of Naples/Ft. Myers, to find your perfect option.