Exploring independent living options
                     Exploring independent 
living options
 Are you planning for your retirement? Are you wondering about 
independent living?
 Many folks look forward to senior living because they know they’ll be able to 
enjoy their years of freedom and leisure. Yet they want to make sure they can 
support their fresh new lifestyle with their income.
 What is an independent living arrangement, and how can you make it work 
for you?
 Let’s take a look.
 What is independent living?
 Assisted living occurs when seniors need help with their daily activities at 
home. They receive regular support for activities like cleaning and meal 
preparation.
 Independent living, however, means that folks can live independently but still 
have access to assistance when they need it. Folks may enjoy a safe 
environment with minimal help.
 Those who choose assisted living pay monthly for a number of included 
services. These include meals, laundry services, and transportation.
 With independent living, however, fees for medical services, food, and 
housekeeping are typically not paid by residents. They do, however, have 
convenient access to these services.
 What are the benefits of independent living?
 Many senior adults prefer independent living to other lifestyles. They enjoy 
the opportunity to make new friends as they enjoy the amenities offered.
 Your facility may have a gym, movie theater, or game room. Some 
communities even have things like libraries and hair salons on the premises, 
so you won’t have to worry about regular transportation as often.
 Those who live in independent communities enjoy the fact that they no 
longer have to worry about a strict work schedule and finding vacation time. 
They can explore new hobbies, volunteer, and relax in their communities on 
their own schedule.
 Seniors can enjoy a weekly golf game or yoga class without worrying about 
their work or family obligations. They may want to enjoy cooking clubs, wine 
tastings, or book groups.
 That being said, seniors like the security of knowing that the things they 
require are available nearby when they need them. Senior communities are 
usually within a short drive to grocery stores, medical centers, and shopping 
centers.
 Many seniors don’t require regular assistance with their daily needs, and they 
like being able to plan their own meals or host their grandchildren regularly. 
Independent living provides an excellent way for them to enjoy their freedom.
 What is different about senior apartments?
 Senior apartments are designed specifically for adults ages 55 and older. This 
means you’ll be surrounded by your peers and those you have things in 
common with.
 Senior apartments are often created with the unique needs of senior adults in 
mind. This could mean in-unit laundry facilities or limited stairs.
 You may be able to walk your pets and enjoy activities without having to 
worry about traffic. Stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, and balconies 
are other amenities you can enjoy without concern now that you no longer 
have children living in your home.
 Where are senior communities located?
 You can find independent living communities in almost every type of 
neighborhood. Some folks prefer suburban neighborhoods where they can 
easily visit grandchildren or have them over for dinner.
 Others enjoy a more rural feel, preferring to have the freedom to fish, hike, or 
enjoy a nature walk. Wherever you are, however, there is usually 
transportation available. Many seniors, however, prefer to drive themselves 
to wherever they’d like to go.
 Senior living communities are usually located near lots of places of interest 
for older adults. These could include museums, art galleries, or parks.
 Maybe you prefer to shop at a local outlet or get a gourmet cup of coffee 
while you saunter through town. Or perhaps you’d like to take in a movie or 
sample some local cuisine.
 Busses and cab services may be available, but you may also wish to drive 
yourself. Independent living allows you to enjoy your retirement years while 
still having access to all of the accommodations you need.
 How can i prepare to live in an independent living community?
 Before moving to a 55-plus community, it’s important to know what you can 
afford. If you’re living on a fixed income, you’ll want to consider whether or 
not you can pay the rent while still affording things like groceries and 
entertainment. You’ll also want to find out what utilities are included in your 
rent.
 You’ll also want to think about your proximity to friends and family. Don’t 
choose to live in a community that’s a day’s drive away if you’re going to 
want to see them on a daily basis.
 If, however, you’re comfortable with a reasonable distance from extended 
family, think about how you will make friends in your new home. Some folks 
will make friends quickly no matter where they end up settling.
 You’ll also want to think about the climate in your new setting. You may want 
to move somewhere warmer, or you may still wish to enjoy the change of 
seasons.
 You may wish to purchase furniture for your new place, or use some of your 
existing pieces and give others away. Many folks prefer to decorate more 
simply once they’ve moved into a 55-plus apartment.
 You’ll also need to think about your wardrobe. Make sure you’ve got lots of 
sneakers, shorts, and pieces you can use when golfing or working out.
 Get moving
 Making the decision to move into an independent living community can be 
exciting. With the right research and the right location, you could be starting 
an active new chapter in no time.
 Don’t stop getting smart about senior living now. For excellent, affordable 
options in many East Coast locations,  contact us today.
Get in touch with 
us
Active Senior Living in Warsaw Independent Senior Apartments in Burlington
5378 Conable Way 1844 Old Saint Mark’s Church 
Warsaw, NY 14569 Road
Burlington, NC 27215
585-558-4022 336-290-7171
warsawmanager@connect [email protected]
m
Active Senior Living in Orchard Park
100 Weiss Avenue
West Seneca, NY 14127
716-771-1439
orchardparkmanager@connect55.
com