7 Tips for Choosing the Best Independent Senior Living Community

Seniors often decide to move to an independent living community. They want to turn household tasks and meal prep over to someone else, giving them more time to enjoy life. However, they need to ensure they find the right independent senior living community for their needs. The following tips will help them find this community.

1. Make a list of amenities desired in the community. One person might choose an independent living home on a golf course so they can play a round or two every day. Another person might want to live in a community that plans regular trips because they love to travel. Knowing what is desired in the community is the first step in choosing the right one.
2. Location is also a consideration when choosing a senior living community. Does the senior want to remain in their current neighborhood, or would they prefer to move closer to family and friends? Is there another place they have always wanted to live that should be considered? Choosing the right location is as important as choosing the right community, as the senior will hopefully live there for many years.
3. Determine which housing option is preferred. One senior might need their own home, as they want family and friends to visit freely and have a quiet space to gather. Another person might prefer an apartment, as they plan to spend as much time as possible in the company of other residents. They don’t need much space because they won’t spend most of their time in the apartment.
4. Once these questions have been answered, it’s time to begin researching different communities. The internet makes doing so effortless. A family can compare the options and narrow the list to those they want to visit in person. When researching the communities, visit each community’s website. However, extend the search beyond this website. Read independent site reviews and ratings from third parties assessing these communities.
5. Schedule tours with those communities remaining on the list after the online research was conducted. Try to visit each community multiple times to get an authentic feel for how residents live. Plan one visit during the morning when people get up and ready for the day. Try to plan another visit during regular business hours to see how medical appointments and other errands are handled so the family knows their loved one can get to where they need to be effortlessly. Try to plan a third visit to learn how residents spend their evenings. Do they head off to their private accommodations or gather for fun activities? One can never have too much information when making this decision.
6. Learn about the financial aspects of moving to each community. How much will it cost monthly, and what does this fee include? Talk with different communities to learn how the living accommodations can be paid for. Retirement savings and long-term care insurance are only two ways to pay for the community. Financial aid options might also be offered, so it never hurts to ask.
7. Help the loved one transition into the independent living community. Spend time with them in the community on the first day and plan the next visit before leaving. Doing so will ensure they don’t feel abandoned so they can focus on settling into the community and meeting their fellow residents. They look forward to this visit and all they will have to share regarding their new living arrangements.

Families should work together to find the right independent living community for a loved one. However, as they will live in the community, allow the seniors to have input into this decision. Finding the right community becomes easier when all parties work together, and the seniors will thrive in their new setting.

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