There comes a time in everyone’s life when they need a little help. For some, this time comes earlier than others. When seniors find themselves no longer able to live on their own, they and their families face some tough decisions. One of those decisions is what kind of living arrangement is best for the senior. Should they move in with family? Go to a nursing home? Or choose independent senior living?
Independent senior living, also called senior independent living, is a type of housing designed specifically for seniors who need assistance with activities of daily living but do not require 24-hour skilled nursing care. Independent living communities usually provide residents with their own private living quarters—such as an apartment or condo—but also offer a variety of shared amenities and services, like meals, transportation, and social activities.
Independent senior living exists on a continuum of care that includes other housing options like assisted living and nursing homes. That means that as a resident’s needs change over time, they can often “age in place” and receive the level of care they need without having to move to another facility.
For more information about Baptist Retirement Community’s senior independent living, contact us at 325.313.7931 today.
What Services Are Offered in Senior Independent Living Communities?
The services available at each independent living community vary, but most offer common amenities and assistance with activities of daily living, such as:
- Housekeeping and maintenance
- Transportation
- Fitness and wellness programs
- Social activities and clubs
- Dining options
- Laundry services
- 24-hour security
Depending on the community, residents may also have access to concierge services, beauty/barber shops, libraries, computer labs, and more.
What Are the Benefits of Senior Independent Living?
Independent senior living has many benefits for residents. Perhaps the most obvious is that it helps seniors maintain their independence by providing them with the support they need to live on their own. Other benefits include:
- A sense of community – When seniors live in independent senior communities, they have the opportunity to make new friends and be part of a supportive group. This can help combat feelings of loneliness or isolation and improve mental health overall.
- Access to care – As mentioned before, most independent senior living communities exist on a continuum of care. This means that if residents’ needs change over time, they can receive the care they need without having to move facilities.
- Better physical health – Adults 65+ who live in social environments like independent senior communities have been shown to have better physical health overall than those who do not live in such environments. This is likely due to the access seniors have to supportive services and opportunities for socialization and exercise.
- Greater mental stimulation – Studies have shown that older adults who interact with others on a regular basis tend to experience less cognitive decline than those who don’t interact as often. Additionally, adults who are socially active tend to live longer than those who are not.
Independent senior living can be a great option for seniors who want to maintain their independence but need some extra support. These types of communities typically offer residents their own private quarters as well as shared amenities like transportation, social activities, fitness programs, housekeeping, and more. If you or your loved one is considering independent senior living, be sure to tour several different communities to find one that best fits your needs and budget.
Discover Independent Senior Living at Baptist Retirement Community
Located in a beautiful, peaceful setting just minutes from the heart of downtown Raleigh, NC, our residents enjoy a range of thoughtful amenities and supportive services that help them live their best lives. Contact us today by filling out our secure online form or by calling us at 325.313.7931 to learn more about our independent senior living options.