Independent Living communities, also known as retirement communities, are apartment style housing for seniors who need limited assistance and want maintenance-free living. These communities offer a broad range of amenities, social activities and enrichment experiences to promote an active, healthy lifestyle.

Services can differ between Independent Living communities. Some communities offer limited care services for the residents, and others allow residents to hire private care services if needed. Many communities have a shared dining room where residents gather for meals and socialization.

Many seniors consider Independent Living communities when they have the mental and physical capacity to live without care but desire social activities and enrichment. This often follows a decline in socialization as a result of friends moving or passing away leaving your loved one(s) feeling isolated and depressed.

Lack of socialization has been linked to elderly depression. These feelings lead seniors to be less active in the community, and you may notice them driving less than they used to, becoming more sedentary and not visiting friends and family as much. Sometimes this situation leads to missed doctor appointments which can lead to additional health problems.

Independent Living brings with it a “hassle-free” life – no more raking leaves or taking out the garbage. While some Independent Living communities offer housekeeping, medication reminders and dining services; the main draw is for the socialization this lifestyle offers. The community involvement, amenity-filled and maintenance-free living with onsite and offsite activities caters to seniors and are the highlight of Independent Living.

Independent Living prices vary greatly depending on the number of services that are offered but typically start around $3,500 per month. Some communities can be less without added services, while high end independent living with all the “bells and whistles” can be $9,000 or more per month. Assisted Living Advisers can direct you to an Independent Living community to meet your specific needs and monthly budget.