Independent living is a great option for seniors who are thinking about moving to a living space with less complications. In an independent living community, seniors can live independently but also enjoy the company of other residents. If you or your loved one is considering moving to an independent living community, read on to find out more about the three main independent living types so you can determine which type is most suited to your needs and preferences.
Retirement Communities
As its name suggests, retirement communities are suitable for independent retirees who wish to enjoy the company of their peers. Retirement communities typically provide the least services and is the most independent type of community housing. The management is usually only responsible for the upkeep of the community grounds, while residents do their own household chores like cooking, cleaning and so on. Possible amenities in the community may include a fitness center, a golf course, pool, transportation services and restaurants. There are also different housing types, for example, condominiums, single-family houses or townhouses. While rules vary across different retirement communities, residents typically own their home individually. Certain retirement communities may allow renting, and this is done by either renting from a single owner or renting as part of a collective. Some communities are managed by a homeowners’ association and thus impose fees for the upkeeping of community grounds and facilities. In more luxurious communities, residents may also have to pay membership fees to use the community’s facilities.
Senior Living Communities
Senior living communities are normally part of a larger community that offers different levels of care, including independent living, assisted living, memory care and nursing care. More services like housekeeping, transportation and laundry are offered as compared to retirement communities. Residents can choose to have meals in the communal dining room instead of cooking for themselves. Staff are available on-site at all times, so added safety and security measures are provided. If you prefer a lifestyle that is more maintenance-free, where you can continue living autonomously with convenient services that lessen the number of chores you need to do, then this is the perfect choice for you. If you need some extra help with care but still want to remain independent, you can arrange for in-home care companies to provide additional support.
Affordable Senior Housing
This type of independent living has similar facilities provided in senior apartments. However, the main difference is that its rent is below market rate because the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) subsidizes rental rates to make these communities more affordable. There are multiple different housing subsidy programs that you can apply for, but they have various financial conditions that must be met in order to qualify for the subsidy. The conditions vary according to state as well, and housing subsidy programs usually have wait-lists.
Choose Independent Living at Discovery Village At Sugarloaf
At Discovery Village At Sugarloaf, our independent living community aims to fulfil all our residents’ needs by providing access to multiple services such as transportation, dining, housekeeping, and concierge. Our high-quality amenities are specifically designed to reduce stress and support safe physical activities. Apart from independent living, we also provide two other distinct senior living options, namely personal care and SHINE® memory care. Contact us now to find out more about our various senior living options!
