What Is Independent Living for Seniors?

Author

The Terraces at Bonita Springs

Posted on

Jul 13, 2023

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

share-this
Share This

What Is Independent Living for Seniors? 

As you begin your search for senior independent living, you’ll find yourself met with many new terms and sometimes complex options. What’s a CCRC? What types of senior living options are available? What’s the difference between independent living and assisted living? 

 

We’ve put together a primer of what independent living entails, as well as the benefits it can provide to older adults. Read on to learn more about how independent living can provide a vibrant lifestyle for today and peace of mind for the future.

What is independent living? 

Independent living is a term that describes a lifestyle that you’ll find at a senior living community. This type of lifestyle is for seniors who are healthy, active, and don’t need assistance to live safely. Many independent living residents like those at The Terraces at Bonita Springs choose to move into these types of communities because of the carefree lifestyle, focus on wellness, and socialization opportunities they don’t get from living on their own.

Types of Independent Living Communities

Independent living communities can be stand-alone or part of a larger senior living community. Both options have different benefits, but the independent lifestyle can be quite similar. 

Retirement Communities

Also known as 55+ communities, this type of lifestyle is for individuals who want the privacy of owning their home but also want the services and amenities that come from a senior community. These types of community offerings can include a pool, a clubhouse, maintenance-free or low-maintenance homes, and social activities. These communities operate similarly to an HOA neighborhood, with dues that are paid to cover certain services and amenities.

Life Plan Communities

This type of senior living is also known as continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs).  

 

Life Plan Communities like The Terraces at Bonita Springs offer a variety of senior care services, including assisted living, memory support, skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Independent living residents have priority access to these different levels of senior care if needed, which provides peace of mind for the future. The community also has a plethora of services and amenities to help seniors stay active, healthy and well. 

Benefits of Independent Living 

The benefits of moving to a senior living community are many, with very little downside. In fact, most of the residents at The Terraces tell us that they wish they’d moved here sooner! Moving into independent living can help seniors stay active and healthy for as long as possible, since every aspect of life has been designed with the needs of aging adults in mind. Here are just a few more benefits of the independent living lifestyle:

●      No more home maintenance, thanks to a maintenance-free environment

●      Peace of mind with assisted living and memory care services available

●      So many socialization opportunities

●      Planned and available activities and events every day

●      Delicious dining options from formal to casual

●      And so much more!

What To Consider When Looking for Independent Living Options

Does independent living sound like the right solution for you or a loved one? It’s important to know what your wants and needs are so that you’re better able to weigh the options available to you. Here are a few factors to consider when looking into independent living options:

●      What sort of care levels are available, and are they available on site?

●      Is there a LifeCare contract offered and what does it cover?

●      What sort of services and amenities are available on site?

●      How does the community provide health and wellness opportunities for adults at all ages?

●      How full is the event calendar, and are there options that interest you or a loved one? 

●      What is the dining situation like? 

How Much Does Independent Living Cost?

The cost for independent living can vary greatly from community to community. The price tag associated with this lifestyle depends greatly on location, contract type, and services offered. Depending on the type of community you choose, you may need to pay a large entrance fee, plus a monthly fee that covers most, if not all, of the benefits of the community. 

 

While health insurance doesn’t cover independent living for seniors, there are some variables that can let older adults deduct some of their expenses when tax season comes around. A Life Plan Community like The Terraces can save you money now and in the future and can also lessen your tax burden depending on your individual situation. 

 

Discover an independent lifestyle that helps you age in style.

At The Terraces at Bonita Springs, our independent living options take the maintenance and worry out of everyday life. Choose from a variety of floor plans to fit your lifestyle, elegant dining options, and an active lifestyle with health service options all in one place. Learn more about us and see what your future could hold when you visit our community. 

 

 

 

Other Articles You May Like

Holiday Visits: Prepare the Home, Protect Your Peace

A warm welcome doesn't require a perfect house. Whether family is coming for an afternoon or staying a few nights, a little planning now can make holiday gatherings more comfortable for everyone.1. Have the conversation earlyConfirm dates, overnight arrangements, food preferences, and any mobility needs. Let guests know what works for you, including visit length and quiet time.2. Create a comfortable place to landFresh linens, a clear bedside surface, and an easy-to-reach lamp can make a guest space feel welcoming. No guest room? Agree on sleeping arrangements ahead of time.3. Make movement easierClear hallways and stairs, secure or remove loose rugs, and check lighting between sleeping areas and bathrooms. Keep frequently used items within comfortable reach.4. Put safety before tidinessStore medications securely, especially when children are visiting. Check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms according to the manufacturer's instructions, and keep exits clear.5. Share the hostingInvite family to bring a dish, help with cleanup, or organize an activity. Keep meals simple and make room for breaks. Being together matters more than doing everything yourself.6. Make space for connectionSet out a few family photos, plan a favorite game, or ask guests to share a memory. Often, the simplest traditions are the ones everyone remembers.

Night of Wonder at The Ringling

A New Chapter Deserves a Thoughtful Beginning.

A New Chapter Deserves a Thoughtful Beginning.Choosing a senior living community is an important life decision. But what happens between making that decision and feeling truly settled?At Silk Road Connection, we work directly for you and your family, providing personalized planning, professional coordination, and oversight of the many details involved in transitioning to senior living.Our goal is simple: Less stress for families. More time to enjoy what comes next.Founder-Directed Team DeliveredSchedule a complimentary consultation. [email protected] silkroadconnection.org

Local Services By This Author

The Terraces at Bonita Springs

Independent Living

Your Personal Retreat for Socialization and RelaxationThe Terraces at Bonita Springs offers a stunning living environment, the finest resort-style amenities and services and the security of predictable pricing for health care as a LifeCare resident.Choose from a one-, two- or three-bedroom floor plan; options include breakfast nooks, dens and additional half- and full-baths. Each residence comes with the finest finishes and appliances, lacking only in your personal touches.Our hospitable associates take care of all the maintenance, cooking and cleaning so you can enjoy a vibrant and connected lifestyle.Resident Services LifeCare health services with priority accessChef-prepared mealsInterior and exterior maintenanceWeekly housekeeping and flat linen servicesConcierge servicesPersonal one-car garageComplimentary valet parkingWellness programs for mind, body and spiritVitality program with personalized wellness plansUtilities (except phone and internet)24-hour securityProperty taxes includedCultural, social, educational and recreational eventsTransportation servicesIn-home emergency alert systemsCommunity AmenitiesMultiple dining venuesState-of-the-art fitness center and wellness programsIndoor and outdoor pool and spa, group water fitness classesCertified fitness instructorsTherapeutic massagePerforming Arts CenterGated communityBeautiful landscaping with lighted walkwaysTennis and bocce courtsPutting greenOutdoor BBQ areaLibrary and resource centerBusiness center with computersCreative arts studio and crafts roomBilliards room/game roomBeauty salon/barbershopGuest suitesActivities CalendarEvery service, activity and amenity available to you is thoughtfully planned with your interests in mind.Exquisite DiningOur elegant restaurant and casual bistro provide just the dining experiences you are looking for.Area AttractionsRetirement life at The Terraces means youre just minutes from beaches, shopping, fine dining and entertainment choices.LifestyleLife at The Terraces is designed to be beautiful, maintenance-free and worry-free.

WillowBrooke Court at The Terraces

Skilled Nursing

Your Personal Retreat for Socialization and Relaxation The Terraces at Bonita Springs offers a stunning living environment, the finest resort-style amenities and services and the security of predictable pricing for health care as a Life Care resident. Choose from a one-, two- or three-bedroom floor plan; options include breakfast nooks, dens and additional half- and full-baths. Each residence comes with the finest finishes and appliances, lacking only in your personal touches. Our hospitable associates take care of all the maintenance, cooking and cleaning so you can enjoy a vibrant and connected lifestyle.

OakBridge Terrace at The Terraces

Assisted Living

Inclusive Assisted Living: Hospitality With CompassionFor those who require a helping hand with daily activities, assisted living offers the ideal balance of personalized service and independence. If youre in Southwest Florida and searching for assisted living near me, look no further than Renaissance, our resort-style Bonita Springs assisted living community. Here we help older adults live independently with access to care whenever and however they need it. Our inclusive assisted living fees cover everything, so residents can budget without any surprises.Assisted living provides residents assistance with basic activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing and medication management. It also provides a sense of comfort and peace of mind to residents and their loved ones, knowing that with this care, residents are able to focus more on enjoying life.But Renaissance delivers more of what discerning seniors and their families expect from assisted living. Unlike other assisted living facilities, our community offers luxury amenities and services, including spacious, beautifully appointed residences and delicious dining where senior assisted living residents can order from chef-prepared menus. Our community features a large fitness center, creative arts studio and crafts room, a courtyard with landscaped grounds, plus robust programming and activities that keep residents engaged, connected and thriving. Above all else, senior care staff members are always available to provide exceptional service so that residents feel safe and fulfilled.With compassionate care at our core, we work directly with residents and families to go over living options and tailor a plan that works best for them. We take into account personal needs, schedules and individual preferences to ensure each resident enjoys an enriching life with maximum independence.If a resident experiences an illness, injury, or surgery and requires rehabilitation or skilled nursing care, those services are available right here and may be covered by Medicare Part B. Residents enjoy the convenience and confidence of receiving the care they need in the community they love. Best of all, following care, they are able to return to their assisted living residence.Assisted Living Services & Amenities24-hour licensed nurses availableInclusive pricingAssistance with activities of daily livingSpacious one- and two-bedroom residences, complete with a kitchenette and full bathAll utilities and basic cable provided, except telephoneSocial and life-enrichment activitiesLarge creative arts studio and crafts roomOutdoor terraces for diningDedicated fitness centerOutdoor courtyard and beautifully landscaped groundsWell-appointed common areas, including a TV room, library, lounge areas and media roomScheduled complimentary transportation availableHigher levels of care are available at our Bonita Springs, FL, senior living community, under one roof. Assisted living residents who need skilled nursing, memory support, or rehabilitation can receive that care seamlessly without moving away from our retirement community.Browse Our Floor PlansArea AttractionsLifelong LearningVitality ProgramAssisted Living Care: Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)When is the right time for assisted living? Thats a question we frequently hear. People may be confused about the differences between independent living and assisted living. They may also think their loved one may need a nursing home. The answer is fairly straightforward. If your loved one needs support with activities of daily living (ADLs), assisted living is the right choice. What are activities of daily living? They are regular daily activities that are related mostly to personal care. They include bathing or showering, dressing, safely taking medications, getting in and out of bed or a chair, walking, and similar activities.If your loved one needs help with any of these, assisted living is a wonderful option to consider. Not only will your loved one receive the personalized assistance thats so essential to maintaining a sense of independence, but at Renaissance, an entire lifestyle is available that can add so much to your loved ones life. New friends. A rich social life. Programs and activities that add joy and meaning to every day. Access to a wide variety of amenities, such as our fitness center and walking paths. And of course, our dining services team makes sure your loved one enjoys healthy, delicious meals.Renaissance Service and AmenitiesAll residents of Renaissance, including those in assisted living, enjoy all the services and amenities offered within this inviting community, including:Direct admittance with no large entrance feeThree chef-prepared meals daily, served in a private dining roomAccess to a full continuum of on-site health care servicesMedical director and registered dietitianMedication monitoring and administrationWellness programsRehabilitative therapy servicesState-of-the-art equipment and treatment programsMove-in coordination support24-hour security and emergency call systemGated communitySprinkler system and smoke detectorsFire-rated and sound-resistant constructionEmergency power generatorsResidence and grounds maintenanceBeauty salon, barbershop and spa servicesHousekeeping, daily bed-making, and personal laundry service availableIndividually controlled heating and air conditioningIf you have questions about the cost of assisted living, or about any of our health care services, please contact us today.