Your best friend is raving about how much she is enjoying her new retirement lifestyle, and now you’re intrigued. But just what is independent living, and is it the right choice for you? Here’s an overview that might inspire you to learn more.
What is independent living?
The phrase “having your cake and eating it too” applies here. In independent living, you not only enjoy the comforts of a private, smartly designed residence, you have access to a range of amenities and services that make your life easier. Depending upon the community, that can mean access to a beautiful pool that you don’t have to take care of; exceptional dining prepared for you (and no dishes to wash); classes; parties’ lifelong learning; volunteering opportunities; outings; happy hours and more — all arranged for you and your neighbors, all with the intent of enhancing your quality of life.
And the best part? You get to enjoy it all, without the worries of home maintenance or daily chores. That’s because the independent living lifestyle is set up to handle the daily details of life for you, leaving you the freedom to relax and enjoy life as never before.
Independent living is a lifestyle option that can be found in a senior living community that also includes other lifestyle options, such as assisted living and memory care. It also can be a gated community, high-rise, or a residential setting with condominiums or apartments in a pleasant neighborhood.
The answer to what is independent living? Retirement, only better!
Download our free guide, Just The Facts: Your Guide to Independent Living.
Who would most enjoy independent living?
Those who have chronic health conditions that require ongoing healthcare are not the best candidates for independent living (though in many communities, residents are able to use third-party home health services that can meet their needs for things like medication management or therapy.)
Good candidates for the independent living lifestyle:
- Someone who is living independently and does not need assistance. You are able to handle your daily needs, such as taking medications, bathing and dressing, and keeping your house in order.
- Someone who loves the idea of trading maintenance and chores for freedom and fun. You are ready to put the mop and mower away and explore all that life has to offer, such as new ways to stay fit, opportunities for lifelong learning, new hobbies and pursuits, new friendships and connections, a renewed sense of purpose, and more.
- Someone who is ready to embrace wellness and all the aspects of healthy aging. When you ask about what is independent living, the answer includes a strong focus on lifelong wellness. Independent living residents are finding more ways than ever to stay active, engaged, and tuned into new strategies for achieving greater longevity and quality of life.
- Someone who is self-directed and can design their days to be as active or quiet as they like. You like having control over your schedule and you are eager to add new ways to engage with others, as well as savor time for meditation and relaxation.
How does a Life Care Community enhance independent living?
Many older adults would like to make one move into a retirement lifestyle and know that they will not have to move again if their needs change over time. If this appeals to you, consider independent living in a Life Care Community or Continuing Care Community (CCRC) such as St. Mark Village in Palm Harbor, Florida.
Here, you will find a vibrant, inspiring environment with good friends, abundant opportunities to pursue physical health, intellectual and cultural fulfillment, and spiritual enrichment, as well as quality care if needed, guaranteed—without having to leave the Village and your support system.
St. Mark Village offers you all the perks of vibrant, extraordinary independent living, with seamless access to future care options. Everything you need to start living the good life today!
It’s good to be excited about what lies ahead. Download our free guide, Just The Facts: Your Guide to Independent Living. Or contact us. We’d love to hear from you.
