What Are The Benefits of Independent Living Communities for Seniors?
Learn why many individuals are choosing to enjoy their retirement in a vibrant, thriving community.
As you enter your retirement years or later seasons of life, you want to enjoy your days in a place where you feel welcomed, cared for, and seen. Yet, for many senior adults, the later years of life are spent in isolation – a reality that can lead to increasing rates of depression, anxiety, and negative physical outcomes.
There’s an outdated stereotype that independent living communities are nothing more than “old folks’ homes” – a place where individuals are left to spend their last years forgotten by their families and friends.
But step foot into a modern senior living community, and you’ll find that this stereotype isn’t just wrong – it’s quite the opposite!
Those who live in independent living communities often report enjoying a much higher standard of living than those who remain in traditional housing options, and many find that the opportunities to connect with others and engage in their favorite activities are icing on the cake!
1. Those Living In Independent Living Communities Report a Higher Quality of Life
Can you really upgrade your day-to-day life in a senior independent living environment? The studies seem to say so!
A recent NORC study completed by the University of Chicago found that those living in independent senior adult communities live longer, healthier lives than those in traditional living settings.
What might be the reason behind this longevity boost? A number of factors – from the home healthcare options offered to the proactive approaches to diet, exercise, and wellness.
- Studies find that residents in senior independent living communities receive – on average – ten more days of home health care services than those who remain in traditional housing.
- The same individuals also report benefiting from four additional days of rehabilitative and preventive services compared to the same time range of those living at home alone.
Many independent living communities offer intentional, preventive services that can help individuals enjoy a higher quality of life over a longer period – including physical, mental, and spiritual care.
2. Independent Living Communities Boost The Social Factor
Another key reason so many are opting for independent living communities for retirement is that there’s fun to be had!
While isolation is a major concern for those living alone at home, individuals who live in independent communities enjoy a variety of activities and friendships that make life all the more satisfying.
- Organized clubs and group activities that cater to a wide array of interests and hobbies
- Communal dining experiences that encourage connection and ongoing community involvement
- Shared spaces built for intentional activity and engagement – making sure not a day goes by that individuals don’t feel seen or heard.
Study after study shows that those who live alone at home in their later years report higher levels of depression and anxiety – even among those who have consistent visits from their family, friends, or home health aids.
By spending their days in and among those in a similar life stage, individuals can enjoy social engagement to their liking – and may even find that they build deep friendships that enhance their lives far more than they ever imagined!
3. Senior Adults Can Experience Freedom From The Daily Grind
Ask around any thriving senior adult living community, and you’ll likely hear one thing:
“I’m so happy I don’t have to deal with those annoying parts of home ownership!”
Mowing the lawn, keeping the leaves raked, chasing down those leaky pipes – all those inconvenient parts of owning a property go away once you live in a community that’s taken care of for you!
Maintenance-free independent living communities ensure you are liberated from day-to-day nuisances – freeing you up to pursue those hobbies, activities, and dreams you worked so hard to make time for.
And that freedom has an incredible effect on the health and well-being of individuals, with those who have the freedom to enjoy friends and hobbies reporting higher levels of happiness and fulfillment. Instead of feeling overwhelmed and frustrated by problems, independent living communities give you the space to rediscover interests that bring you life.
4. Independent Living Communities Offer Safety Without Sacrificing Freedom
A common misconception about older adult independent living is your ability to live as you choose to go away once you sign the dotted line.
But it’s quite the opposite – 24/7 security and on-site care staff actually offer peace of mind that should anything occur, there’s always someone there to help. This doesn’t limit the abilities of those living here but gives them confidence to engage fully, knowing that trained professionals are mitigating any risks.
Family and friends of those living in an independent living community can relax and trust that their loved one is enjoying their days without the risks that come when individuals live alone.
5. The Financial Picture Might Surprise You
Money is often a big consideration when someone chooses where to spend their later years.
While the idea of moving to an independent living community may seem pricey, when you break down the amenities and benefits, you’ll start to see the move as an investment in a better quality of life.
The nature of most independent living communities means that utilities, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and often meals are included in a single price. That simplifies the entire financial process – ensuring your loved one isn’t missing bills or sacrificing comfort while on a fixed income.
Plus, most communities have financial counselors on staff who can walk you through the process of payment and coverages – so you don’t have to worry about missing any fine print.
Ready To Enjoy The Benefits of Independent Living?
Individuals who choose to live in a community see the benefits of a higher quality of life, enhanced social opportunities, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing their needs are handled.
Are you ready to experience the benefits that come with investing in quality independent living? Asher Point Senior Living of Austin offers individuals the opportunity to spend their days enjoying the best of independent living – from premium living spaces to on-site amenities that ensure you’re never without something to do and someone to see.
Contact our team today to learn more about how to call Asher Point of Austin – and how you take the first step to putting down roots in a thriving independent living community.