Is Independent Living Right for You? Hear From Our Residents

Despite prevailing myths, a move to independent living isn’t about giving anything up; instead, it’s about creating space for the things that matter most. Some people move for community and connection, others for the convenience of low-maintenance living and many for the reassurance of knowing support is available when they want it. 

If you’re wondering whether independent living is right for you, the key is to understand what it offers and whether it aligns with your goals and priorities. Let’s dig into the pros and cons of independent living to provide the perspective you need to make an informed decision.

What is senior independent living?

Senior independent living, sometimes called residential living, is a senior living option designed for active, self-sufficient older adults (often over the age of 55) who don’t need ongoing medical care. Though offerings vary depending on the community you choose, independent living usually offers:

• Plentiful social opportunities

• Programs for the mind, body and spirit

• A variety of dining options

• Complimentary home maintenance

• And more!

Independent living is a great option for those who are ready to spend more time focusing on their passions. Some independent living options are part of a Life Plan Community (sometimes known as a continuing care retirement community or CCRC), which also offers access to other levels of living, such as assisted living or memory support, on the same campus. Other independent living communities are stand-alones, providing amenities and benefits but without on-site access to other levels of living.

What are the benefits of independent living for seniors?

Independent living advantages include more than just a place to call home. It’s a lifestyle designed to enhance your well-being and create the time and space for things that bring you fulfillment. 

Share life, grow and flourish.

Perhaps the biggest pro of independent living is the opportunity to share life with neighbors who become friends. Community life offers adults a place where they can go about their day as they please or take advantage of the events, amenities and opportunities offered around campus. Think of it as a place with a built-in network of neighbors where you can nurture existing friendships and foster new ones.

Why all of this talk about connecting with neighbors and building relationships with peers? Because recent research has reported how crucial connection is for adults and their health. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one-third of U.S. adults report feeling lonely, and one-fourth report not having social and emotional support. This social isolation leads to feeling disconnected and can increase the risk for serious health complications, including depression, anxiety and even dementia. Living in a community setting with close friends and neighbors means you’re more likely to feel connected and experience the positive health outcomes that come along with meaningful relationships. 

Jim and Eileen, residents of Hillside, a HumanGood Life Plan Community in McMinnville, Oregon, were a bit apprehensive about the move to independent living, but they were delighted to find a community filled with kindred spirits. “We were truly amazed by how much we had in common with the other residents and how welcoming and friendly everyone was here,” Jim says.

Enjoy amenities and services.

The heart of senior independent living is the opportunity to engage with community life, but there is so much more to enjoy as well. Independent living is designed to give you the freedom to focus on things that really matter — whether that means passion projects, volunteer work, travel or time with friends and family — while minimizing the time you spend on chores and to-do lists. 

Depending on the location you choose, independent living community benefits can include a variety of amenities, services and resources to enhance wellness, provide opportunities for socialization and contribute positively to your preferred lifestyle. For instance, at HumanGood Life Plan Communities, residents enjoy:

• Delicious, chef-prepared meals

• Events and programs for the mind, body and spirit

• Housekeeping and laundry services

• Home and lawn maintenance

• Transportation services

• Security services

For Stan and Jackie, the move to Rydal Park & Waters, a HumanGood Life Plan Community in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania, provided them with the freedom and flexibility to pursue their passions. “Whether we are working out at the local gym, spending time with family, working or volunteering, we wanted a place that was low-maintenance but had the space and beautiful amenities that we desired in this next chapter of our lives,” Jackie says. 

Stan adds, “Living at Rydal Park & Waters has given us the gifts of time and convenience, which are priceless to us. Who knows what hobby or career we will take up next?”

Is independent living right for you? 

Moving to a residential senior living community may be right for you if you enjoy your independence and are ready to embrace a vibrant, maintenance-free lifestyle on your own terms. 

But this isn’t the only consideration. Consider these benefits of independent living to see if it’s a good match:

Connecting with others is a priority.

You want more convenient social opportunities and care about staying connected with old friends while making new ones. 

In Piedmont Gardens, in Oakland, California, Allen has found a deep sense of purpose in not only maintaining his own social ties but also empowering others to do the same. From serving as vice president of the resident council to participating in the music, events, film and social work committees, he enjoys keeping himself and other residents connected. “I really have the best of both worlds: family and friendships that keep me active and happy,” he says.

Lifelong learning opportunities appeal to you.

You want convenient, regular access to events, programs, resources and neighbors that keep you engaged intellectually because of the personal fulfillment and long-term well-being benefits lifelong learning provides.

Jerry and Tania, residents of Springhouse in Boston, agree, “It’s an engaging environment filled with individuals from diverse fields and backgrounds. ... The sense of community here, with everyone sharing their interests, is inspiring.”

You would like convenient access to resources to maintain your physical well-being.

You’re looking for opportunities to stay physically active (e.g., a fitness center, exercise classes, walking groups and so on) and the resources to understand how to take care of yourself over the long term (e.g., wellness seminars, health coaching and so on). 

Kate, a resident of Valle Verde in Santa Barbara, California, not only found a new form of physical fitness when she started playing pickleball, but she also gained a group of lifelong friends. ”I saw how much fun people were having, so I decided I wanted to give it a try. I have been hooked ever since,” Kate says. “I jokingly say, ‘I have OPD: Obsessive Pickleball Disorder.’ Playing pickleball provides the three C’s: cardio, camaraderie and competition!”

Simplifying your to-do list sounds appealing.

You’re ready to streamline your lifestyle because home maintenance, yard work or household responsibilities feel like more of a burden than a joy. 

As Hank, a resident of The Terraces at Summitview in Yakima, Washington, says, “I downsized to just the right size, and doing so freed me up to enjoy a better lifestyle and make new friends.”

Peace of mind is key for this stage of your life.

You’d like peace of mind for now and the future. Transportation services, on-site staff and safety features provide comfort and convenience that empower you to live more freely.

Ann, a resident of Springhouse, says, “Living at Springhouse provides me with peace of mind about the future. I find comfort in the stability Springhouse offers and appreciate that I am supported and cared for by other residents and team members.”

When is independent living not right for you?

While senior living comes with plenty of benefits and amenities, it isn’t always the best fit for everyone. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind:

• Downsizing: Independent living often features low-maintenance living in a smaller apartment or cottage than you may be used to. If having a large yard and home is important to you, senior living may not be your best fit.

• Proximity to neighbors: Senior living communities provide privacy and the option to engage socially as much or as little as you prefer. However, the reality is that you will be living in a community setting with close proximity to neighbors.

• Living with adult children: If your adult child lives with you now (or may need to in the future), be aware that communities may have restrictions on long-term guests or roommates. 

• Financial considerations: You may be surprised at how cost-effective independent living can be, but it’s a financial commitment that may not align with your budget or priorities.

• Care needs: Independent living doesn’t provide assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing and eating. 

What if “no” is the answer to “Is independent living right for you?” While some people prefer to age at home, the potential cost of care in the long run can pose challenges on an emotional, logistical and financial level. Another option to consider: other levels of senior living. For instance, some older adults find assisted living, which provides independence and help with ADLs, is a better match. The key is choosing the type of senior living that supports your health, goals and priorities.

When is the best time to move to independent living?

The best time to move is when you’re healthy, active and ready to enjoy everything community life has to offer. Waiting until health challenges become overwhelming can make the transition harder and limit your options. By moving earlier, you’ll not only enjoy the freedom and amenities now — you’ll also already have a circle of neighbors and team members ready to support you if your needs change down the road.

Curious to hear more from people who are flourishing in a senior living community?  Read more firsthand stories from HumanGood residents.