Independent living is ideal for retired adults looking to restructure their lives to better suit their needs — while maintaining the active, fulfilling lifestyle they love. Independent living often means moving into a retirement community or senior living facility where seniors can connect with similarly aged people who share their interests and lifestyle. Let’s take a look at independent living, and why it’s such a desirable choice for seniors.
What is Independent Living?
Independent living represents a lifestyle shift during retirement when seniors keep what they love most and restructure their lives in a way that best suits their needs as they age. There are various types of independent living options, and many involve moving into a retirement community or senior living facility like St. Anthony’s, where residents can receive more support throughout their days and still enjoy the independent, busy lifestyle they’re familiar with.
What are the Benefits of Independent Living?
By opting for independent living in a senior living facility, you are joining a welcoming community and transitioning to a comfortable setting if the time comes when you require further care. It also is a great way to downsize and simplify your household responsibilities, as independent living in a senior living community includes several services and amenities to simplify everyday life.
Services at St. Anthony’s
Independent living residents at St. Anthony’s are able to enjoy their retirement to the fullest, as they no longer have to worry about the strenuous work of keeping up a household, home repairs or landscaping. Our residents also enjoy several other services as part of their all-inclusive independent living package, from dining to on-site medical support. When you join the independent living community at St. Anthony’s, you gain:
- Dietician-approved, chef-driven meals in a stunning dining room (or available for take-out to enjoy in your own apartment too!)
- Housekeeping
- Landscaping across our stunning campus
- Apartment maintenance and repairs as needed
- And a full calendar of social events and outings!
Amenities at St. Anthony’s
When it comes to independent living, the amenities are truly one of the highlights! Our senior living community is known for beautifully manicured campuses and spacious apartments designed specifically with your needs in mind. With a wide variety of floor plans to choose from, it’s easy to find yourself right at home at St. Anthony’s. Here are some of the amenities our independent living residents get to enjoy:
- Spacious and accessible one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments with full kitchens and combined washer/dryer units
- St. Anthony’s Chapel for Catholic services
- St. Peter’s Pub for a drink with friends
- St. Thomas Moore Wellness Center for fitness, plus an on-site beauty salon
- Walking paths and community gardens
- Stunning, luxurious, light-filled interior design throughout
- Caring, expert support and nursing staff
- Convenient location in coveted Brookside neighborhood
- So much more!
What Makes Independent Living Different from Assisted Living?
While both independent and assisted living provide a simplified lifestyle in a peaceful senior living community complete with amenities, social events, and spacious apartments, there are some important differences. Assisted living residents have all of their meals taken care of in a community dining room, therefore their apartments typically have a kitchenette rather than a full kitchen. But the biggest difference between independent and assisted living involves personal care support.
In contrast to independent living, residents of assisted living typically need additional support. This extra assistance usually revolves around one of the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) that become difficult to handle on your own as you age. These can include bathing, dressing, mobility and, in some cases, incontinence care. Assisted living residents also get extra support from licensed nurses on staff, medication management services, and on-site caregivers to help them live with as much freedom and autonomy as possible.
How Much Does Independent Living Cost?
Independent living costs are typically all-inclusive, covering a wide array of expenses in one simplified bill. Your independent living rent covers not only your apartment and utilities, but also the following:
- Housekeeping and landscaping
- Cable and internet WiFi
- Chef-prepared, delicious meals each month
- Transportation services
- And social activities
The ultimate cost depends on where you live, the apartment you choose, and what premium upgrades you opt into. On average, independent living in a senior living facility costs between $3,000 and $4,000 per month. For a more in-depth breakdown of the expenses at St. Anthony’s, visit our pricing guide.
Is Independent Living Right for You or Your Loved One?
So how do you know if independent living is the right choice for you or your senior loved one? Older, retired adults who are generally active and healthy but ready to simplify their lifestyle and connect with a community of peers will love what independent living has to offer. Independent living allows you to enjoy all the perks of maintenance-free living and a planned social calendar without the need for medical or personal care.
If you’re trying to decide whether it’s time to make the change to independent living, ask yourself the following questions:
- Are you ready to delegate household chores like housekeeping and some meal preparation?
- Do you wish you had a community of peers to spend time with?
- Do you struggle to keep up with home repairs and maintenance, not to mention cleaning your large family home?
- Does living in a thriving social community while still having your own private apartment sound like your ideal situation?
If you’re unsure whether you should seek independent living or assisted living for yourself or your loved one, assess the level of personal or medical care required. If you or your loved one are generally healthy, active, and able to handle all personal care needs, independent living is the right option for you! And if you need more help down the road, St. Anthony’s is here to ease the transition.
Contact us to learn more about independent living at St. Anthony’s and schedule a tour of our stunning campus in Kansas City!
