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Active Adult Communities vs. Independent Living: Which Is Right For You?

Senior couple using a laptop together

If you or a loved one is starting the search for senior housing, you’ve probably realized it’s not as simple as it may seem. Throughout your search, you’ll encounter several options for active independent living, but you might not fully understand the differences between all these options.To make the right choice for your future, you need to learn the differences between active adult communities (55+) and independent living communities.

 

What Is  a 55+ Community?

Active adult communities, or 55+ communities, are a great offering for retired seniors. These communities are an excellent option for individuals who don’t need the services and amenities offered at a continuum-of-care senior living community. These 55+ communities are ideal for empty nesters  or those retiring early who want  to downsize their lives while also staying active. 55+ communities don’t typically offer any care component or meal plans; however, they usually provide exterior maintenance and are conveniently located near shops,  restaurants, movie theaters, parks, and other amenities. Because these communities are typically centrally located within cities, they also offer residents unique social benefits within the surrounding community and with their neighbors.

 

What Is a Senior Independent Living Community?

An independent living community for seniors  is designed for active, independent,  self-sufficient older  adults looking for minimal support. While most seniors in independent living don’t need help with medication management or tasks associated with daily living, they can benefit from on-site amenities, well checks, housekeeping, and access to nutritious meals. All utilities are typically covered in one monthly fee, so residents never have to worry about water, sewer, garbage, internet, or television. With a full schedule of activities, events, and planned outings, senior living communities make it easy to stay active and social. The best thing about independent living communities is that they are part of campuses with higher levels of care services including assisted living and memory care. With a full continuum-of-care, residents can enjoy peace of mind that their needs will be met now and well into the future. Housing in a senior living community can vary but typically includes cottages, apartments, or townhouses  that allow seniors to downsize into a homelike atmosphere that is much more manageable.

 

Key Differences Between Independent Living in a Full-Service Community and 55+ Communities

Knowing the differences between the most common types of senior living is important, but what’s even more important is making the right decision for your needs now and in the future. Both types of accommodations are focused on providing seniors with a safe and low-maintenance campus that caters specifically to the needs of aging adults. 55+ communities are ideal for those nearing retirement and unsure of where the future might lead them. Since they typically offer only a minimal care component, this type of living arrangement is for active adults  who are entirely independent and see no immediate need for care. Independent living in a full-service senior living community is ideal for seniors looking for a more permanent move that gives them the stability they need now and well into the future. Many such communities offer vibrant independent living as well as assisted living, skilled nursing and rehab, and memory care. This multidimensional care is important because it gives seniors peace of mind that their needs will be met now and if anything changes in the future.

 

Independent Living with Peace of Mind for the Future

Are you looking for high-end independent living that offers you peace of mind? Freedom Village at Brandywine gives you just that. You can live a comfortable and engaging lifestyle knowing that if you ever need an increased level of care, it’s all right here for you. Focus on the things that make you happy, and take life one day at a time. Learn more about our independent living community and all it has to offer.