Apartment Communities for Active Adults 55+

Independent living is for people who can take care of themselves, but want the convenience of someone else to do the cooking and cleaning.

Many older adults in the U.S. prefer independent living communities to home ownership. That's because unlike living in a home of their own and taking care of many daily responsibilities, independent living communities afford seniors a more carefree lifestyle.

The number of Americans ages 65 and older is projected to nearly double from 52 million in 2018 to 95 million by 2060, and the 65-and-older age group's share of the total population will rise from 16 percent to 23 percent.

The demand for retirement communities, therefore, has been on the rise in recent years. The good news is that there are currently many decent communities today that provide excellent services to people who want to live in senior living communities.

If you've been looking for a senior living community for yourself or an elderly loved one, here are a few points to consider to make sure that you choose the right fit for them.

Consider the Residents in the Community

While a senior housing facility may have gorgeous structures and plenty of amenities, it is ultimately the residents in the facility who'll determine the kind of experience your loved one has while there. You want your loved one to have peers they can connect with and feel comfortable around.

If possible, bring your elderly relative along during your first visit to the facility so they can chat with some of the people and determine whether they'd like to get to know them better. Observe how the staff treats other residents and visitors too.

Check the Size of the Community

Independent living communities come in all sizes, so it's up to your family to decide whether a smaller sized community is best. If your relative prefers a busier environment with plenty of opportunities to socialize, then you may want a larger senior living community.

Think About Accessibility

Before deciding on an independent living community for your loved one, examine how accessible it is, both outside and inside. You want to feel safe when coming in or going out all hours of the day. If there are essential amenities outside the community, check whether they're within walking distance or are easily accessible.

Take a look at the potential housing unit your loved one will be living in to see how adaptable it is. The best units allow for the easy addition of ramps and grab bars. Enquire whether the facility allows pets in case your loved one has a furry friend.

Check Out the Amenities and Activities

The best independent living facilities can have a variety of amenities onsite. Coffee shops, libraries, and games rooms, for instance, are some of the facilities your loved one may need to use frequently. If your elderly relative is a fitness enthusiast, a fitness center and pool on-site are a huge plus.

Of course, independent living communities may offer some new activities that your loved one may want to consider. Some facilities, for instance, have partnerships with nearby colleges to provide academic classes.

Think About Cost

How much you're going to be paying for the services provided by the independent living facility is something you cannot overlook. Most facilities charge a flat rate for the rent and some services, while some provide additional services at a fee. You may find that a particular community includes utilities in the rent, while another requires you to set up your loved one's account for cable TV, electricity, and internet. Ultimately, you want an independent living facility that you can comfortably afford.

There are lots of factors that come into play when it comes to selecting the right independent living community for your loved one. The most important thing for you to do is determine what matters the most for your elderly relative and opt for a facility that's the best fit for them.

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