Senior Care Choices: Independent Living

This blog post is a part of a series entitled, “Senior Care Choices.” In each post, you’ll get an overview of a specific senior care option and the basic information you’ll need to know if it is a good option for you to pursue. Today we’re talking about independent living. Be sure to check out the different posts detailing other excellent possibilities of care for you or your loved one.

What is Independent Living?

For many seniors, staying independent is of utmost importance. Independent Living allows for those seniors to continue enjoying their independence while having limited care services close by and available.

When Should I Consider Independent Living?

When you or your loved one is in a place where only a limited amount of assistance and care is necessary, Independent Living is an excellent option. Whether you struggle with the idea of fully relying on others, or you simply want to stay close to family and friends, consider the variety of independent living options available.

How Do I Choose an Independent Living Program?

For those seniors who desire to continue living with as much independence as possible, here are several living situations available to choose from:

• Active Adult Communities in the South Bend area are master planned retirement communities with homes for sale. Most offer a clubhouse where a variety of activities are offered. Services such as landscaping, maintenance & housekeeping are usually offered as well.
• Senior Apartments are independent living units with an age requirement. Meals are usually not provided, but most have a clubhouse where groups meet for activities.
• Retirement Communities offer independent living with amenities such as meals, transportation and activities included in the monthly fee.
• Continuing Care Retirement Community, or CCRC, often offers independent living, assisted living and nursing care in a single setting. You can start on the independent level and progress as need be, staying on one campus. These communities normally require an entry fee and offer a living unit, meals, and health care up to the nursing level.
• Senior Villages are a newer phenomenon where a group of homes share services and interact to make their own “community.” Services in the different “communities” may include transportation, meals, activities, housekeeping, laundry, and more.
• Home Care is for those who want to stay in their own home. Home care can offer help with daily activities such as dressing, bathing, cooking, errands, light housekeeping and more. This allows seniors to get help when they need it while continuing to do what they can.

Click Here to learn more about Independent living options in the South Bend area.