Frequently Asked Questions About Independent Living For Seniors

Independent Living communities for seniors were created to provide housing and lifestyle amenities for those in their retirement years who no longer want the burdens of home maintenance. While life in Independent Living may closely resemble your current home situation, it comes with added perks that make everyday living more convenient and enjoyable. Most residents are active and self-reliant but have come to an age where they want access to features such as social activities, dining, housekeeping, concierge services, and more in a community atmosphere.

Independent Living is ideal for seniors who are self-sufficient but looking to simplify their daily routines. If you’re 55 and over, looking to downsize from a large home that requires a great deal of upkeep or are in a townhome and no longer want the hassles of climbing stairs or just want to be among others in the same stage of life as you, Independent Living is a choice worth considering.

A variety of Independent Living housing options are available and they vary depending on the community; however, almost all offer single-level layouts for comfort and ease. Some of the most popular housing styles are duplexes, villas, cottages, townhomes, and apartments. Sizes range from studios for single individuals to one-, two- or even three-bedroom homes for couples or those who prefer extra space for daily living or to welcome family and guests. Generally, Independent living residences have a kitchen or kitchenette so residents can prepare their own meals.

Monthly fees typically cover exterior home and property maintenance, interior home repairs, campus amenities such as walking trails and fitness centers, concierge services, scheduled local transportation, building security, and dining programs with access to on-site restaurants and cafés. What really elevates Independent Living communities for seniors, though, is their social and recreational programs that encourage interaction and help keep residents engaged. These include activities like movie nights, happy hours, exercise classes, educational workshops, arts and crafts, off-campus outings, games, and worship services.

Everyone’s situation is different, so there’s no definitive answer on when it’s the ideal time to move to an Independent Living community for seniors. If you’re exhausted with mounting home repairs, tired of maintaining a home that’s too big for your needs, struggling with stairs, experiencing minor health issues that are slowing you down, or feeling lonely and isolated, it’s a sensible time to consider Independent Living for seniors.

For many people, pets are beloved companions and part of the family, so it’s natural to want to bring them with when moving. Fortunately, many Independent Living communities for seniors allow pets; however, there are often restrictions. For example, your pet may be required to undergo an assessment before being accepted to ensure the animal is safe around other residents. Some properties limit the number, type, breed, or size of pets that are welcome and many have additional fees. Generally, owners must care for their own pets and are responsible for any harm they may cause. Make sure you understand the pet policy if you want to bring your furry friend to your new Independent Living residence.

Residents in most Independent Living communities for seniors may own and keep a vehicle on site. Duplexes, villas and townhomes feature individual garages while indoor or outdoor parking is usually available for apartments. Common area parking may be included in monthly fees or incur an additional cost, depending on the property and availability of spaces. If you don’t need a car or don’t want the expenses associated with owning one, most Independent Living communities for seniors offer transportation services such as vans or buses to take residents to medical appointments, off-campus outings, shopping trips, and more.

The cost of Independent Living for seniors varies by state and city, the type and size of the community, and the style and size of the housing. Generally, monthly charges cover rent, utilities, amenities, and services. Many people are surprised to find that the all-inclusive fee structure is comparable—or even less—than their combined living expenses. It’s always wise to examine your current bills, analyze your assets and debt, and even consult with a financial advisor to understand what you can afford.