Why Choose Independent Living?
Independent living can be a wonderful way to live if you are in good health, are able to take care of yourself and desire to live independently with people your age.
Independent living is a non-residential, active living place where seniors or those who have disabilities, come together and cooperate in making responsible and productive lifestyle choices. Independent living centers provide a wonderful opportunity to live independently; especially for those who have disabilities or aging health concerns.
Choosing an Independent Lifestyle
Independent living centers not only provide living quarters for healthy seniors and the disabled but for those who live locally. Services such as independent living skills, peer counseling and technical assistance with legal issues and general disability are offered to those who desire more information.
Services of Independent Living
Other services that are offered in independent living are: laundry, group meals, local transportation, and social and cultural activities.
Differences Between Independent Living and Assisted Living
With most independent living quarters you must be able to manage their own personal needs and home environment. The difference in assisted living is that residents receive help with bathing, grooming, dressing and eating. Also, with assisted living medical care is limited. In addition, independent living is quite separate unto itself from nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
Styles of Independent Living
There are several different types of independent living. There are: senior apartments, retirement communities, low-income housing, high end housing—where you are required to buy a house or living unit and subsidized housing.
What to Do
When making a decision on independent living, call and then visit several locations and find out more about their offerings. Such questions to ask when considering independent living are the following:
• Is the parking area close by and is the area well lit?
• What about security measures? Is there a gated entrance and security guards?
• What about public transportation? When is it available?
• Where do you want to live? Do you want to live on the first floor? Or would you be alright living on the second or third floor?
• Are you close to a hospital or your doctor?
• Do you have a shower and bathtub and are accessories such as a grab bar available?
• What about community services such as health and recreational services? And, will you be able to participate when you want to?
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