Independent Living

Senior Independent Living - Tips for Family Caretakers by Senior-Meals.org

Senior Independent Living - Tips for Family Caretakers by Senior-Meals.org
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What is Independent Living for Seniors?

As seniors age, they are faced with the likelihood of having to change their living arrangements. Because thinking about moving can be stressful, planning allows seniors to have more control over their circumstances.

Thinking ahead allows them more independence. Often, they are having trouble maintaining their residence or keeping up with their yard work. At this point, seniors may decide senior independent living is right for them. 

It is any type of living arrangement geared towards seniors age 55 or older. The housing styles can vary from apartment-style living to single-family dwellings. They are in a community and may be called: 
  • Retirement communities
  • Senior housing
  • Senior apartments
  • Retirement homes
  • Congregate living
Regardless of name or type, most communities accommodate seniors by providing their own private living quarters and have shared space for:
  • Community halls
  • Laundry rooms
  • Recreation rooms
  • Transportation pick-up and drop-off points
  • Some may offer swimming pools and golf courses
Some senior apartments are equipped with call-buttons and grab rails. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, HUD, may subsidize senior apartments as low-income housing and offer Section 8 housing, which allows the price of senior apartments to be based on income. Only 30 percent of the income the senior receives may be spent on rent. This allows those living on a fixed income to live affordably in their own home. Waiting lists for Section 8 senior apartments are very long and it may take years before an apartment becomes available. 
Independent Living Housing

Seniors who reside in independent living housing are responsible for their own personal care. However, housekeeping and laundry may be offered in some styles of senior housing. Upkeep of the grounds and general maintenance is always provided. Social events and other outings are sometimes provided and arranged. Some centers offer a variety of classes, designed to keep the mind and body active. 

Senior housing can be age inclusive, meaning they are open to all retirees, or they can be age exclusive, meaning only seniors who are over the age of 55 can live there. The cost of non-HUD subsidized senior communities is generally the same cost as the area housing market. Some may be slightly higher in cost if certain amenities are included, such as:
  • A gated entrance with a guard on duty
  • Scheduled transportation
  • Swimming pools
The difference between independent living housing and other senior options such as assisted living, continuing care and nursing home care is senior retirement communities and apartments do not provide dressing help, medication reminders and toilet help. Of course, those requiring in-home care may use family caregivers, home caregivers or home health aides. 

Because no healthcare is provided, private insurance, Medicare and Medicaid do not help with payments. Senior communities are not regulated by local, state or federal guidelines, unless they accept Section 8. Rules and regulations are set by the management company that owns the community. 
What is Independent Living for Seniors?
Independent Living Centers

As opposed to senior apartments, an independent living center is similar to a resort. Each senior has his or her own condo or single-family dwelling. The homes are located within gated communities and often include extra amenities such as:
  • Interiors that have been decorated by an interior designer
  • Meals provided by 5-star chefs in elaborate dining rooms
  • Complete athletic complexes
  • Concierge service
Centers also provide some type of alert system as well as 24-hour help. This alleviates the stress many seniors have about living alone. High-end independent living centers usually cost around $1,500 per-month. This depends on the geographical location. When looking for a high-end independent living center, take the following into account: 
  • Does the community provide a gated entrance?
  • Is public transportation in the immediate area?
  • Are the living units on ground level?
  • How close are family and friends?
  • Are doctors and pharmacies near-by?
  • Is there plenty of parking?
  • Are the kitchen and bathrooms senior friendly and equipped with lowered counters and grab rails? 
  • How are emergencies dealt with? 
Assisted Independent Living

Assisted independent living usually involves a senior living in a senior living center or in senior housing with a home health aide coming in for a set number of hours each day. Often, a senior who has assisted independent living may hire a caregiver to come in and help with bathing and dressing. Senior may also choose to live in a retirement community that provides all levels of care. They may live independently with no help and then move to assisted living to skilled nursing care as needed. This living style enables seniors to stay within the same community for the duration of their life. 

Independent Living Agencies

Those interested in senior independent living can get more information on senior communities at their local senior center. The National Council on Aging can provide information on applying for Section 8 HUD housing. 
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