Seniors Today Expect More Independence from Housing Options

• (Photo : photo)

Independence is one of the top priorities of seniors today, and their living options have expanded with independence in mind. Senior retirement communities have changed, with an emphasis on active lifestyles, freedom and security, and rewarding experiences.

If you want to tour independent senior living apartments, one place to start is All Seniors Care Living Centres. They're a good example of senior living apartments that allow you to downsize, maintain your independence, and age in place thanks to the availability of continuing care. You can find your local All Seniors Care Living Centre and request a tour to see for yourself what independent senior living can be like.

Below are some of the main factors that make independent senior living different from senior housing options in the past.

1) Freedom with Safety

One of the biggest indicators of independent living is the freedom to come and go as residents please. The security provided by senior apartment living can put their mind at ease, but having a social life outside of the residence - and at the hours they choose - is extra important.

Freedom isn't just limited to permission. It's also about how seniors can get where they want to go. Walkable neighborhoods are high on the list of priorities for seniors. That means areas that are safe and pleasant for pedestrians, even those who may not have the mobility of a young adult.

A walkable neighborhood has safe footpaths, shade and protection from the elements, interesting elements along the way, and convenient crossing. Walkability is one of the most freeing elements in a senior's life, especially when they reach the point where they should give up driving.

2) Help with Chores

At a certain age, many seniors get fed up with cooking, doing the dishes, mopping the floors, mowing the lawn, cleaning the gutters, and the everyday household chores that come with homeownership. They're looking for a life free from all that, so that they can relax and enjoy their golden years.

One of the best perks of independent senior apartments is that they can take a huge household maintenance burden off of residents' shoulders.

3) Social Activities

When you get older, sometimes life can get more isolating. It can be harder to get out and see friends, and harder to make new ones. That's one of the big appeals of retirement communities. Many of today's retirement communities have tons of scheduled activities, from outings to games to movie nights.

What today's seniors want is the option. Many relish the opportunity to spend an evening playing cards or joining a knitting club, but always with the choice to stay in and read, watch a movie, or just enjoy some peace and quiet. 

True Independence for Seniors

True independence means choice. It means choosing to stay in or go out, choosing where you want to go, when you go there, and how you get there. Independent senior living options are increasingly focusing on delivering on those desires.