Retirement is a time for freedom but also a time for choosing where to live. While many seniors choose to stay at home others make the move to independent living sooner than later. But independent living isn’t for everyone. To make the right choice, take a look at the pros and cons of independent living in retirement.
The pros of independent living
#1 – A carefree and independent lifestyle
One of the primary reasons retirees choose independent living in retirement is the carefree lifestyle. Living in a house means constant upkeep, cleaning and repair, while in an independent living community the days are full of fun, fulfilling and entertaining activities and events. Rather than planning each day around chores and a honey-do list, independent living in retirement offers diverse choices that include exercise classes, playing a round of chess with a friend, walking the grounds and enjoying nature, and afternoon happy hours.
Another aspect of independent living in retirement is that of volunteering, something many seniors look forward to in retirement. Once free from the bondage of home ownership, seniors can enjoy the gratification of giving back, as well as the health benefits described in the mayoclinichealthysytem.org article, “Helping people, changing lives: 3 health benefits of volunteering.”
#2 – Resort-like amenities
Unlike living at home, independent living in retirement at top communities like The Lodge at Stephens Lake is often compared to living in a resort. Imagine a leisurely lifestyle including chef-prepared meals, housekeeping services, and organized social programs and outings. In addition, forget about having to drive to the movie theater or the hair salon or barber shop because they are also on-site and easy to access. Of course, there are also plenty of like-minded people to meet and have fun with whether that’s playing a game, enjoying a drink or just spending time together. For a more in-depth look at what we have to offer, check out our blog, “Is Independent Living A Good Way To Spend Retirement?”
#3 – Private homes
Independent living in retirement doesn’t always mean giving up a spacious and private home for an apartment. At The Lodge at Stephens Lake, we offer Cottage Homes that are extremely spacious and every bit as comfortable and private as a family home. Each Cottage is more than 1,200 square feet and offers two bedrooms, plenty of storage, living and dining rooms, well-appointed kitchens and baths, a laundry room, an attached garage, and utilities are included! Check out our floor plans for the details.
Download our “Senior Living Options” guide.
#4 – Amazing meal options
Even the best cooks appreciate a restaurant meal now and again, and independent living in retirement has really raised the culinary bar. While every Cottage has a fully equipped kitchen, our residents can also choose a meal plan that fits their desires and schedules and enjoy delicious chef-prepared meals rivaling the best restaurants and served three times a day in our beautiful dining room.
#5 – Safety and security
Two other important aspects of independent living in retirement are safety and security. For seniors who live alone just having help close by is a huge bonus. For those who love to travel, knowing their home is always secure in their absence makes every trip that much better. But there are other details, like those described in our blog, “The Peace of Mind of Senior Living Safety and Security Features,” that are hard to get at home. For example, accessibility is built in throughout the community, and some of the biggest safety risks in a family home – like shower/tub combinations – are eliminated. For those who prefer not to drive, professional local transportation is one more way life is safer when choosing independent living in retirement.
The con of independent living: it’s not for those who need ongoing care
Independent living in retirement is a great option for healthy, active seniors but not for those who need daily assistance with personal care. Seniors who require help with personal hygiene like bathing, need assistance with mobility, can no longer manage medications, or have health problems that make it unwise to live alone at home are best served by assisted living. The beauty of assisted living is that residents can still enjoy many of the benefits of independent living with the peace of mind that their daily needs are taken care of with compassion and dignity. To decide whether independent or assisted living is the right fit, our blog, “Is Assisted Living Right for You? 5 Senior Living Questions to Ask Yourself,” can help.
Download our “Senior Living Options” guide to learn more about independent living. Contact us to schedule a tour of our amazing senior living community.