Why I Chose Independent Living
Aug 18, 2021
Why I Chose Independent Living
Retirement is a time of celebration and reflection; looking back on what youve accomplished in your professional career, and deciding how to spend your free time. For some, that means considering an independent living community free from the responsibilities of traditional homeownership.
We asked residents to answer some common questions about their decision to make the move, and their experience at Revel:
I wanted to live an active lifestyle
Some communities offer nothing more than a collection of apartments for residents over 55 years of age. But for individuals looking for an active lifestyle, independent living communities offer amenities like on-site fitness centers, spas and restaurants as well as opportunities to make new friends and explore your interests.
Id been thinking of moving somewhere else, said Rebekah, a Revel Province resident. [They] do not look at seniors as old people. I love the lifestyle programs; the exercise is really important to me. I love the gymbeing able to go and access that whenever I want tothat spoke to me.
Staying active also means engaging your mind. I love the art class, and soon, were starting Spanish,said Victoria, a Revel Nevada resident. I never thought Id be learning another language, but Im excited to.
I was looking to live somewhere better than my current home
Why make a change if youre not upgrading? The experience of a luxury resort is what sets Revel apart from other independent living communities. This country club feel is also what helps many prospective residents make their decision to move.
For Revel Nevada resident Ron, this realization came while vacationing in Central America. I was down in the Dominican Republic at a resort, and I thought, Why am I here? My apartment is better than this!
Guests visiting Revel also benefit from the same amenities residents have. My guest yesterday said this is better than any five-star resort theyve been in, said Tory, a Revel Nevada resident. This is just paradise. The food is wonderful; we order from a menu, and we can eat anytime, or anyplace.
I was looking to give up the responsibilities of owning a home
Enjoying your own living space shouldnt mean hours of chores or yardwork. Choosing a community like Revel Province allows you to enjoy your free time and say goodbye to the most tedious responsibilities of home ownership.
I was mowing the lawn in Las Vegas in 106-degree weather, and just thought to myself, Why am I doing this?said Revel Nevada resident Ron. My house, too, had all the problems with upkeep and all that. I wanted to get rid of those responsibilities. Even the condos I considered still had an element of upkeep.
When you free up your schedule you open yourself up to new opportunities and hobbies.
Youve done so much with your life. Why not do something more? said Jen, Lifestyle Director, Revel Province.
I wanted to make new friends and form new relationships to last a lifetime
Establishing strong connections is important in successful aging, but finding a dependable social group can be challenging. Choosing a community that enables meaningful relationships can make all the difference as you transition to a new phase in life.
Its a wonderful place. There are welcoming people, attitudes, and energies here. Youll fall right into the flow of living and youll love it, said Rebekah, a Revel Province resident.
I wanted to bring vitality back into my life
An independent living community should offer you new opportunities to explore the things that matter to you. With less to worry about, youll have ample time and space to find new ways to enjoy life.
I thought going to a place like this was the end of your life, said Revel Nevada resident Tory. Do you know what a surprise it was to find out it was a new beginning?
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Why Move to a Senior Living Community Before You Need It
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Downsizing
Downsizing can be an opportunity for sharing and enjoying great memories with family and friends. Keepsakes can be handed down so they can continue to be enjoyed. Items can be sorted into distinct categories: take or keep, give to family, sell or auction, donate to charity, recycle or throw away.Ask Yourself Some QuestionsWill this fit in my new space?Is it aesthetic, nostalgic, valuable or loved? Or am I just keeping it out of habit?Will it remain useful or functional in my new home?Can this item or piece of furniture save space by serving two functions?Is it easy to care for, or does it require special attention?Enabling the Downsizing ProcessLay out items that need to go and invite loved ones to pick what they wantWhen giving treasured keepsakes to family and friends, share with them its storyDonate serviceable items to charities that help the less fortunateHave an estate sale and use the proceeds for your new home or for donationsImplementing the PlanStart with rooms in your house you aren't usingMake decisions about big pieces of furniture before tackling smaller itemsGive yourself plenty of time to make good decisionsTake lots of breaks and ask friends and family to helpRemember the goal is to simplifyHave packing supplies, boxes and bags on hand to pack as you make decisionsSchedule the donation truck to come over as soon as you are doneAdvice for Family MembersBe understanding-downsizing is a difficult processDon't push or rush - offer as much help and guidance as neededStay focused on completing one small area at a timeMake a couple of passes through if it can't be done all at onceYou can even put things in storage temporarily if neededAvoid family conflict and consider hiring a third party to assistRemember, less is more. Give yourself the gift of starting your new journey in a clutter-free space with the items you cherish, or have fun and order new items to fit your new space.