What Is Independent Living? Is It Right for My Parents?
If you are considering helping your parents transition to a senior community, you may be wondering: What are my parent’s options? What is independent living? What kind of services do my parents need?
Most independent living communities look and feel like private residences but come with daily support and a variety of social gatherings, amenities, and activities.
Advantages of Independent Living
When considering if independent living is right for your parents, it is important to research what this type of community can offer them. Consider the following advantages and amenities that they will have access to:
Freedom
Residences at communities such as The Davis Community are maintenance-free and worry-free. The utilities are typically included, the landscaping is taken care of, and there is security on-site at all times. In this worry-free environment, residents have more time to focus on what they enjoy doing. They can also come and go as they please, just like they would do in their own home.
Convenience
What is independent living like day-to-day? Convenient! In addition to daily chores like lawn maintenance being taken care of, your parents will also have access to everything a resident may need on-site. From dining to health care to activities, residents never have to go far to live a full and active life.
Wellness
One of the major benefits of this living option is wellness. Your loved one has to approach wellness in a holistic way that includes physical, spiritual, intellectual, social, and emotional practices. Residents have access to daily exercise, seminars, memory screenings, and more.
Staying Active
Retirement shouldn’t be spent running errands, doing chores, and keeping up with the house. It should be spent on hobbies, exploring new activities, and spending time with family and friends. There’s no better place than an independent living community to stay active and focus on important things.
Common Myths About Independent Living
To help you better understand how your parents can benefit, we’re going to break down some of the most common myths surrounding this lifestyle change.
Myth: There Are A Lot of Rules
What is “independent senior living” without the “living” part? It’s a myth!
While there are community standards to keep everyone safe, residents are generally not subject to any regimented schedule or rules. All on-site activities are entirely optional. You get to live your life, and you’re free to come and go as you please.
Myth: There’s No Privacy
What is independent living like in terms of privacy? In a few words, very private.
It can be as social or private as residents want. Residents have their own personal living quarters that can be locked and only accessed by staff in case of emergency.
Myth: Independent Living Communities Are Boring
Some people envision an apartment-style building where residents stay in their rooms and occasionally come out for meals. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Independent living communities are perfect for retirees to stay active, social, and engaged. Residents will never have to worry about being bored and can engage in plenty of activities and events, from trivia to wine tasting to cultural and art activities.
Myth: You Shouldn’t Move to Independent Living Until You Need Help
There is a common misconception that retirees shouldn’t move to a senior living community until they need help caring for themselves.
The reality is an independent living community is an excellent option for seniors who are years away from needing care. Moving while you’re still active allows you and other like-minded residents to enjoy all of the offered activities and amenities.
Time for a Transition
Hopefully, these benefits and myth busters will help you make an informed decision—and help your parents see a glimpse of how exciting their next step in life can be! Independent living offers many benefits, and it’s their turn to take advantage of it.
If you are looking for independent living in Wilmington, North Carolina, The Davis Community is a good place to start. Offering cottage and apartment homes as well as assisted living, nursing and memory care services, The Davis Community provides residents a place to live well and age well. Contact us today for more information!