Retirement brings with it many decisions, not the least of which is where to live. For many older adults, independent living is the perfect choice because it has all the benefits of a home without all the costs and hassles of home ownership. But others may not understand just how great independent living can be in the 21st century. Before deciding, take a little time to get answers to the question “What is independent living?”
What is independent living? Freedom to age in place!
The term “aging in place” is often misunderstood to mean only getting older at home. But that can often come with a high price when the home needs structural renovations to make it safe and secure. In retirement, however, many older adults quickly come to understand that independent living is actually the best choice for aging in place because it is already built for accessibility as well as comfort and security. Housing choices are also diverse and may include stand-alone and attached condominiums and villas as well as apartments, all created with older adults in mind. Find out even more reasons in our blog, “5 Great Reasons to Age in Place at an Independent Living Community.”
What is independent living? Less stuff, more time!
Everyone loves their “stuff,” but older adults also realize that given the choice, they would take less stuff and more time. That’s why downsizing to independent living is often the perfect solution. Large family homes can be filled to the brim with decades of no longer wanted or needed items that can weigh older adults down and keep them from experiencing a carefree lifestyle. But downsizing to independent living is a great way to sort it all out and clear the slate for days filled with more time for going, seeing, and doing exactly what you want. And downsizing can be easier than you think if you take the advice in our blog, “Independent Living Downsizing Checklist for Seniors Planning to Move.”
What is Independent living? Active!
Modern independent living is inherently active and offers residents so many ways to stay physically and mentally healthy and vibrant. Because everything is close by, residents can easily set and keep exercise routines, join in community events and activities, share hobbies, and spend quality time with friends and family. Life in independent living is never boring and always overflowing with fun things to do and great people to do them with, keeping body and mind agile and ready for what’s next. For a sample of what something as simple as a walk can do for active older adults, check out our blog, “Senior Health: The Physical and Emotional Benefits of a Daily Walk.”
What is independent living? Fun!
Fun is a relative term and in independent living, every resident is free to spend time on the fun activities they enjoy the most. Whether fun is striving for workout goals with a buddy, taking a trip to visit local shopping or dining venues, or just spending a summer afternoon reading with a glass of iced tea on hand, there are no limits and no expectations. But there are always options always available from social get-togethers to outdoor nature activities to on-site amenities like hair salons and barbershops to keep you looking your best. Independent living communities really do go the extra mile to make life as good as it can be for residents, but if this sounds too good to be true, just read our blog “Top Qualities of the Best Retirement Communities in Michigan,” to get the facts.
What is independent living? Purposeful!
Older adults who lack purpose in their lives often find independent living to be a great inspiration for finding and nurturing a purposeful life. Without all the responsibilities of a family home, older adults are free to pursue a purposeful lifestyle, which according to our blog, “Why Living with Purpose is Good for Every Senior,” is an essential ingredient in successful aging. Purpose can be found in anything that is fulfilling and gratifying. Whether that is learning a new language, running your first 5k or volunteering at a local charity, the best independent living communities are always ready to help residents live a purposeful life on their own terms.
What is independent living? It’s a carefree and fun-filled lifestyle among friends and friendly staff in a warm and secure community like Ganton’s Countryside. For more information about Countryside, please call Margaret Nagel at (517) 206-5000 or download our brochure to learn about our care levels, cost, and amenities.
