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Independent Living Decision Guide

March 27, 2018

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Life in an Independent Living Community – Is it for You?

Today, seniors are living longer, more active lives thanks to advances in healthcare and overall better knowledge of how to age successfully. When older individuals are still able-bodied and healthy, many feel like there’s no reason to move from their current home and into a senior living community. After all, they are not at a level where they need assistance with activities of daily living, like bathing or dressing, and they enjoy being able to come and go as they please.

However, more and more seniors are starting to plan for their future needs, recognizing that staying in their current homes may end up being more of a burden than a blessing. They might begin having some ongoing health issues that make daily upkeep of the home or yard difficult, or start to feel socially isolated from family and friends.

In an independent living community, seniors can stay active and engaged in life as they build new relationships with their neighbors and the staff. These communities offer easy living, plus peace of mind that as healthcare needs change, supportive services like assisted living and memory care are also available – often on the same campus.

The Facts About Independent Living for Seniors

It’s normal to have some questions before moving into an independent living community. Think about your current needs and how you would like to live in the future. If home maintenance, healthcare or social isolation are concerns, downsizing while you’re still healthy and active can actually help keep you that way.

Here are some of the common questions and concerns in regards to independent living for seniors:

What type of seniors live in independent living communities?
You’ll find all sorts of seniors residing in independent living communities. These residents are enjoying all the benefits community living has to offer, meeting new friends, heading out to a game of golf, conversing with coffee at book club, and so on. They lead fulfilling, active lives, relishing in all that comes with a retirement lifestyle.

Can I come and go as I please?
When you live in an independent living community, you’re able to leave your home whenever you want or need to. Many independent living apartments or garden homes offer parking spaces or garages, so your car is welcome to come with you. Head out to doctor’s appointments, the grocery store, to a movie or to spend time with loved ones at your convenience.

What type of services and amenities are provided?
No doubt about it, life in an independent living community is much easier! You can forget about the hassles of home maintenance like mowing the lawn or shoveling snow from the driveway.

You’ll enjoy fine dining in an elegant, full-service dining room, a bistro for snacks and coffee, as well as social and recreational programs and transportation to off-campus events. Plus, Franciscan Ministries communities offer life-enriching programs and activities centered around the dimensions of wellness to ensure we’re serving resident’s minds, bodies and souls.

I don’t want to lose my independence.
A common fear among seniors is that when they leave their homes and move into a senior living community, their independence will be compromised. After all, they still want to live on their own schedules, not someone else’s. However, community living actually has been found to promote independence among seniors! When staff is taking care of all the home maintenance, and even cooking meals and helping with housekeeping, you’ll have more time to enjoy doing all the things you love to do.

Can I have friends and family over?
Of course! Feel free to invite your friends and loved ones to your new home whenever you’d like. Or, head to one of the communal lounges or gathering rooms to spend some quality time together.

At Franciscan Ministries, simplify your life in our independent living communities! The most frequent comment we hear from our residents is “I wish I would have moved here sooner.” Contact us today to find out how we can help improve your quality of life and aid in your healthy aging plan.