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Independent Living: What Is It and Who Is a Good Fit?

Posted on 
March 25, 2024

Whether you’re nearing retirement or already enjoying your golden years, now may be the time to consider your senior living options. While some older adults prefer to stay in their homes for as long as possible, there are some significant advantages to Independent Living that you shouldn’t overlook.

When planning for your future, it’s important to understand all your options. To help you with this process, this article explains more about Independent Living, the benefits of this senior living option and who is a good fit.

What Is Independent Living?

Independent Living is a senior living option that allows older adults, typically aged 55 and over, to live independently while having access to limited supportive services. These communities offer safe living environments that may include everything from townhomes and apartments to cottages and single-family homes.

While seniors in Independent Living have their own personal residence, they share full use of the community’s on-site amenities with other residents. They can also participate in community-wide events, outings and activities. Best of all, Independent Living often includes numerous hospitality services, such as light housekeeping, property maintenance, meals and transportation.

What Are the Benefits of Independent Living?

When comparing your senior living options, be sure to consider the numerous benefits Independent Living offers.

Enjoy Safe, Maintenance-Free Living

One of the best benefits of Independent Living is that it offers maintenance-free living. Independent Living offers options, such as weekly housekeeping and meal preparation, and snow removal and lawn care. As a gated senior living community, our Independent Living options also provide an extra layer of security and protection.

Meet New People

There are lots of great benefits to retirement, but a lack of daily socialization with your coworkers may not be one of them. Fortunately, Independent Living can provide all the socialization you need. Between numerous common areas and plenty of community clubs and activities, you’ll have no problem finding other seniors who share similar interests.

Focus on Overall Wellness

Independent Living offers the opportunity to focus on your physical, mental and social well-being. Falcons Landing has an on-site fitness center and classes, and it organizes an annual health fair and workshops. Residents can also participate in continuous learning classes and join a club, such as a book club, investment club or computer club. The combination of offerings at Falcons Landing can help promote overall well-being.

Access On-Site Amenities

Residents at Independent Living centers also have instant access to all the community’s amenities. At Falcons Landing, residents can make full use of our fitness center, swimming pool, tennis courts, library and beauty salon.

Secure Continuum of Care

Another great benefit of choosing Independent Living at Falcons Landing is that you can remain living in the community as your needs increase. As a continuum of care community, Falcons Landing also provides Assisted Living, Memory Care and Skilled Nursing care services. If your needs change at any time while living at Falcons Landing, we can adjust your care plan to accommodate these growing needs.

Who Is a Good Fit for Independent Living?

If you’re still able to live independently but handling tasks, such as shoveling, lawn work and housekeeping, is less than desirable, Independent Living may be the right option for you. Independent Living at Falcons Landing is also ideal for active individuals who would enjoy easy access to deluxe amenities, such as a swimming pool, sports courts and fitness center or participating in an array of activities, such as happy hour, book club and outings.

Many senior living communities have health requirements seniors must meet to qualify for Independent Living, such as the ability to handle daily tasks without assistance, including grooming, dressing and bathing. If you currently struggle to complete any of these tasks, Assisted Living may be a better fit for you.

Eligibility Requirements for Independent Living at Falcons Landing

Some Independent Living communities also have other eligibility restrictions. For example, our Independent Living offerings at Falcons Landing are only available to former military or government officials. This requirement only applies to Independent Living and doesn’t impact our other offerings, including Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing and Memory Care.

To be eligible for Independent Living at Falcons Landing, you must meet one of the following requirements.

  • You served 4 or more years as an employee of the United States government.
  • You served 4 or more years of active or reserve duty as a member of the United States Armed Forces.
  • You're a retired or separated officer who served at least 4 years of active or reserved service.

With these requirements in place, you can rest assured that you will meet other like-minded seniors who share similar values and experiences.

When Is It a Good Time to Consider Independent Living?

Traditionally, senior living communities are limited to those aged 55 and over. While many residents are retired, you don’t have to wait until retirement to consider Independent Living. Many people start thinking about their senior living options when they are ready to downsize and want long-term solutions.

If handling day-to-day chores, such as housekeeping and lawn work have become cumbersome or are hindering the things you enjoy doing, such as playing golf or tennis, Independent Living can be a great option. Additionally, if you’ve retired and are lonely or looking for more opportunities to interact with others, Independent Living can provide the socialization you need.

Contact our team at Falcons Landing today to learn more about our Independent Living options.

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