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Independent Living: A Vibrant Solution for Retirement

Older adults have more senior living options than ever before. So much so that it can be overwhelming. While the many types of senior living share similarities, there are important differences. If you or an older loved one is considering where to live during retirement, you’ll want to take time to explore each of these options.

Retirees looking for a community that promotes an active lifestyle would benefit from independent living. Many times, this type of housing is part of a continuing care retirement community (CCRC). A CCRC, also referred to as a full-service continuum community or a retirement community, offers a variety of senior care and housing on the same campus.

Services Offered in Independent Living

Residents of an independent living community typically benefit from:

  • their own private apartment, cottage, or villa
  • daily social, cultural, and recreational activities and outings
  • on-site wellness programs and fitness classes, such as yoga and swimming in an indoor pool
  • dining options ranging from bistros and cafes to fine dining featuring chef-prepared menus
  • transportation services for appointments and outings
  • lawn care, snow removal, maintenance, and repairs
  • housekeeping, laundry, and linen services
  • on-site conveniences, such as a beauty shop, gift shop, bank, and concierge support
  • 24/7 emergency alert systems (standard in most communities).

The Difference between Independent and Assisted Living

Seniors often wonder how an independent living community differs from assisted living. Though they may look similar, they are two distinct types of senior housing.

Independent living is intended for older adults who seek to enjoy an active lifestyle. Residents are often interested in traveling, volunteering, and engaging in social activities.

Being free from the responsibilities of homeownership allows residents to pursue their dreams. You can lock your door and head off on an extended trip knowing that staff will look after everything while you are away.

By contrast, an assisted living community focuses on providing the care and support an older adult needs to live as independently as possible. Team members assist with activities of daily living, such as grooming, bathing, and toileting. Most assisted living residents utilize medication management services.

Daily activities, transportation, and meals are standard benefits of an assisted living community. Residents are free to participate in as many—or as few—events and programs as they choose.

If you aren’t sure which type of senior living you or an older family member requires, the Sunrise Care Questionnaire can help. It’s a four-minute quiz to help identify the option that best meets your needs.

Tour a Sunrise Community Today

The best way to learn more about independent living is to visit in person. At Sunrise, we offer independent living in our full-service continuum communities, as well as in some of our traditional care communities. Call us at 888-434-4648 to explore the options near you!



from Sunrise Senior Living Blog /blog/september-2019/independent-living-a-vibrant-solution-for-retirement.aspx?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSS&utm_campaign=RSS_Syndication
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