Today, healthy, active seniors are increasingly choosing Independent Living facilities as the best of the retirement options available to them. Many seniors find the traditional escape to Florida less appealing now than the scenic beauty of sites in California and Oregon. Independent living residences vary from community to community, depending on their location and owner business strategy, but they all offer a self-sufficient lifestyle in a secure environment. The best of these residential communities feature a comfortable, healthy environment, a variety of lifestyle enhancing amenities, and easy access to a multitude of social, cultural and fitness activities. No longer tied to the demands of a family home, healthy seniors are now seeking that perfect blend of low maintenance living spaces, an autonomous lifestyle, and a comfortable community of friends in their age group.

Options Available

The common types of senior independent living communities are:

1.Senior apartments – These apartments are meant for people above the age of 55. Some of these apartments are converted into private homes or apartment complexes. They generally have assistive facilities like handrails and pull cords to aid mobility. Some senior apartment communities provide recreational programs and transport services.

2.Retirement communities – These are communities meant for seniors above 55 years of age and who no longer work. These communities can be a cluster of houses, private or attached living spaces, manufactured homes or may have the standard subdivisions. Some retirement communities are huge establishments with thousands of residents. Such retirement communities range from those that can only be rented while others may be purchased.

3.Low-income housing – These are senior citizen complexes that are sold at rate subsidized by the government. However, since these apartments can be rented at low rates, the waiting lists are long.

Making the Choice

When considering the Senior Independent Living option, you will want to keep these characteristics in mind: Senior Independent Living facilities do not provide Assisted Daily Living (ADL) services like dressing and personal care, however, services such as housekeeping and room service may be offered in some communities. Medical issues are the responsibility of the resident, but transportation may be available for doctor appointments and shopping. Although staff members may offer some optional programming, such as recreational and educational opportunities, exercise classes and excursions, residents are free to engage in off- and on-campus activities as they wish. The cost of the senior independent living communities differs according to the neighborhood in which they are situated, the quality of housing and the level of facilities and services provided.