While living at home is the preferred choice for many older adults, life in an independent living community may offer unexpected benefits. From security and dining options to socialization and a relaxed lifestyle, the services and amenities give residents the opportunity to enjoy living life to its fullest rather than enduring the ongoing burden of keeping up with tasks and chores.
Who might be a good fit for an independent living community?
Older adults choose to join an independent living community for a variety of reasons. Some have lost a spouse or life partner and struggle with loneliness. Others may experience declines in energy or health and are weary of keeping up with a home and yard.
Isolation leads to declines in physical, emotional, and cognitive health among older adults, and many seniors recognize the need to stay engaged. Senior living communities offer a variety of means for socialization and keeping active. Many older adults no longer feel safe in their homes or neighborhoods and desire the security available in community living. The loss of driving ability can leave seniors feeling stranded. The availability of transportation to appointments and errands can tremendously improve independence and life fulfillment.
Older couples often find themselves in caregiving roles, with one partner serving an increasing role as caregiver for the other. This can lead to difficulty in keeping up with other daily tasks that once were easy such as housekeeping, meal planning, and home maintenance. Having these services provided by trusted staff relieves stress and anxiety and allows more time and energy to focus on each other.
What services and amenities are offered?
The services and amenities offered vary among independent living communities. Most communities will offer a variety of home floorplans and sizes, ranging from apartments to town homes and even stand-alone homes.
Meals are typically provided, often with multiple meal plan options. Room service may also be offered. Communities vary as to the menu options available, with the trend moving toward providing a variety of choices at each meal.
Maintenance on home and grounds is included in most communities. Specifics will vary, but typically include repair of existing structures and appliances, regular maintenance such as light bulb/filter replacements, hanging pictures and window treatments, yardwork, plumbing, heat and air, electrical, and more. Light housekeeping will be offered on a regular basis and laundry options may be available with or without an additional fee.
Independent living communities provide opportunities for life enrichment through scheduled activities, events on and off campus, celebrations, educational sessions, exercise classes, Bible studies, and much more. These add tremendously to a person’s quality of life and sense of fulfillment and purpose. Residents also have a community of friends and connections among the staff and fellow residents. The built-in companionship and ability to stay engaged through activities and events contribute positively to longevity, health, and well-being.
Burgundy Independent Apartments, a Greenbrier Village community, offers adults aged 55+ the opportunity to enjoy an active lifestyle with the convenient services that allow them to live life to its fullest. Residents enjoy dining in the Burgundy Café and the many activities available through a robust life enrichment calendar. Call 580-233-8993 for information about Burgundy’s “Staycation” program, an opportunity to visit the community and experience what life at Burgundy can offer.
