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Most older adults picture their retirement as one life full of relaxation, hobbies, and more time with family and friends. Unfortunately, advancing age progressively makes responsibilities, such as housekeeping, cooking, and other ADLs burdensome. While certain solutions can improve their quality of life, advancing age makes independent living a good solution for such adults.

Designed for retired seniors who are still active, independent living communities, such as Riverview Retirement Community, allow them to maintain their privacy and independence while enjoying the services and amenities that make life easier.

Who Qualifies for Independent Living?

Independent living centers typically offer healthy senior adults the freedom to continue with their social and recreational lifestyle, but with the added convenience of basic housekeeping, meal preparation, and transportation services. While there is a slight allowance, seniors aged 74 and 75 years are eligible for independent living.

Medical care distinguishes independent living from assisted living, memory care, and other senior living forms. Independent living doesn’t focus on providing medical care or helping residents complete their activities of daily living. The emphasis of these communities is allowing self-reliant seniors who prefer community living to maintain independence. Generally, the following seniors qualify for independent living:

• Seniors who don’t need help completing activities of daily living, such as bathing, medication, housekeeping, and dressing
• Seniors who don’t require regular medical assistance or interventions
• Seniors who need help with home maintenance and cooking but are not ready to give up independent lifestyles
• Retired seniors who feel isolated or live alone
• Retired seniors who prefer a laid-back and convenient lifestyle
• Seniors who prefer a 24-hour safety net and immediate help if necessary

Independent living evidently isn’t for everyone. Seniors who need regular access to medical care and help with ADLs should consider other types of senior living. Nursing homes are perfect for seniors who need high-level medical needs, while seniors who need help with ADLs should consider assisted living options. Similarly, seniors with cognitive and memory issues should sign up for memory care communities.

What Are the Costs of Independent Living?

The cost of independent living varies depending on the location and nature of the community. For instance, communities with more amenities and meals are more expensive than those offering basic senior living apartments. However, regardless of the amenities provided, independent living is less costly than other types of senior care because it doesn’t include the cost of personal care and health care services.

Generally, independent living costs approximately 30% to 50% less than assisted living. The monthly cost varies between $1800 and $4000 for different states. Low-income seniors who can’t afford these monthly expenses can bank on various financial assistance options to cater to their independent living costs.

Seniors on fixed incomes can’t rely on social security and their income to cover house and living costs. Fortunately, the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development provides subsidized independent living complexes. Due to high demand, there is a long waiting list, and seniors should satisfy strict criteria to get admitted.

Endnote

Independent living communities are designed specifically to cater to the needs of retired seniors. Certain rules and selection criteria prevent independent living communities from admitting young residents who can disrupt peaceful living. Ensure that your retirement community of choice has excellent social and recreational opportunities, convenient amenities, and good dining options.