Independent Living
Is a worldwide movement for self-determination as well as self-respect. A step in the continuation of care without affecting individuality and independence.
What is Independent Living?
The lifestyle offers residents over the age of 55 a safe living environment with minimal assistance. These senior living communities offer an active lifestyle and freedom from the hassles of home maintenance. Independent Living Communities may vary from apartments, freestanding cottages or villas, duplexes, townhomes, and condos.
Reasons to consider moving into an independent living community may include:
Simplicity and freedom
Straying active
Social Connections
Access to care
Convenience
Its goal is to ease daily living by providing housekeeping, linen services, dining plans, transportation services, and providing security, allowing its residents to focus on themselves.
Amenities in these communities often include fitness centers, pools, multiple dining venues, beauty and barber salons, woodworking shops, art studios or crafting rooms, and entertainment spaces such as auditoriums, game rooms, or movie theaters.
They may provide activities and programs with a focus on different dimensions of wellness:
Fitness classes are adapted for seniors and range from chair yoga, tai chi, and balance training to water aerobics, dancing weight training, and more
These are opportunities for creative expression in art, music, and writing
Lectures, seminars, and classes offered by lifelong learning institutes or local colleges
Types of Care include:
Home Care
Respite Care
What is the Independent Living Philosophy?
"Independent Living is the emancipatory philosophy and practice which empowers the individual, enabling them to exert influence, choice, and control in every aspect of their life."
-Hasler, Frances
The four key concepts revolve around choice, control, freedom, and equality. Its essence ties with the person's freedom to make decisions regarding their own lives and to participate fully within their community.
Family Involvement in Independent Living
Families are encouraged to become immersed in the community but the primary decision generally lies with the resident. Family members are welcome to come and visit with their loved ones and take advantage of the variety of amenities offered throughout the community.
Family support and interaction are key to a person's physical, mental and emotional health. Their important family members feel welcomed within an independent community
Independent Living Amenities
The independent lifestyle may have various programming and resident amenities available regardless of the level of care. Typically, amenities and services include private apartments, housekeeping, 24-hour staff, transportation services, events, social opportunities, and various dining options.
Most facilities provide common living areas such as small libraries, cafe areas, and gaming rooms for casual social activity. Catering is often included as part of the monthly fee with options from fine dining to casual take-out or allowing residents to cook meals at home.