However, while most assisted living facilities offer similar services, independent living varies
widely. While budget-minded communities offer basic amenities in modest apartments, upscale
communities cater to seniors’ every whim, with amenities ranging from beauticians and personal
shoppers to golf courses and indoor swimming pools. If you’re not sure what type of community
is right for you, the best way to find out is to schedule tours, work with advisors, and get a feel
for the options.
Some independent living communities also include different on-site assisted living or skilled care
wings. That way, if your needs evolve, you don’t have to move somewhere new in order to get
the care you need. If you anticipate needing a community that offers independent as well as
assisted living, take the time to tour some of the many Omaha assisted living communities and
read reviews and learn more about payment options.
Still unsure if independent living is the right fit for your lifestyle? Aging in place in your current
home can be made more comfortable by decluttering, getting organized, or even downsizing,
which is where a professional organizer can come in.
On the other hand, while many seniors imagine themselves aging in place, U.S. News & World
Report points out that staying at home comes with a lot of hidden challenges. If you answer
“Yes” to one or more of these questions, you may benefit from a move to independent living.
●You feel lonely or isolated at home and want to expand your social life?
● Is home maintenance and yard work trouble
● Would you like a helper, but don’t have family who can step in?
● Does the home need remodeling but it is too expensive?
● Are you struggling to get around now that you don’t drive?
Many seniors worry that independent living is too expensive. However, compared to the costs of
staying home, moving to senior housing could actually save money.
Even if your home is paid off, aging in place means paying for property taxes, maintenance and
repairs, and the costs to remodel your house for safer senior living. Independent living units, on
the other hand, are designed with a senior’s needs in mind and don’t come with any surprise
bills. Instead, you’ll pay a flat monthly rent and community fees in exchange for worry-free living.
The costs of independent living can be substantial, so you may want to sell your current home
to help offset these expenses. When you’re ready to sell your home for the maximum price,
connect with the skilled real estate professionals from Styl Properties.
Something to consider as you stroll the hallways is the noise level. Is it chaotic? Loud hallways
and open areas may not be as restful as a location that is a bit more low-key. Pay careful
attention to how the staff talks to residents, too. Listen for signs of respect, such as if they
respond promptly and address each individual by name.
You’ll also want to keep an eye out for areas that look unclean. While a stray plate on a dining
room table is likely nothing to worry about, if the tables, chairs, and floors have obviously not
been cleaned for days, that’s a bad sign.
Independent living isn’t right for every senior. If you need more care than independent living can
provide or aren’t ready to part with your family home, a different type of senior living may be a
better choice. However, if you’re in search of a place where you can live on your own terms
without the burdens of home maintenance, housekeeping, and property tax bills, independent
senior living may be just the home you’re looking for.
Photo by Sven Mieke on Unsplash