Independent care is the least restrictive type of Senior housing available.
It is really important to pick the right type of place for you or for your parents because there are so many variables: amenities, services, costs, etc. Not considering all your options and choosing the wrong facility can be disastrous. Not all facilities are created equally, the prices range immensely, and if you get it wrong you risk having to make a second move or wasting a lot of money.
Age restricted communities can simply be apartments, family homes, garden homes, or even townhouses. But independent living communities have a more connected feeling. This is ideal for Seniors who want access to activities and amenities such as arts and crafts, bingo, a pool, or a gym. Higher end facilities may even have golf or tennis.
The main attraction of any independent living facility is the ability for independent Seniors to socialize with people their own age. Some Seniors are simply tired of having a bunch of teenagers with their stereos on with the volume turned up, for example. The types of disturbances that are unavoidable in a regular neighborhood with people of all ages just are not issues in an age restricted living situation. Another major benefit is reduced home and yard maintenance compared to if you lived on your own. Most facilities will have maintenance teams who take care of the infrastructure and landscaping tasks.
However, independent living facilities provide limited, if any, personal care and medical services compared to other options such as assisted living facilities or nursing care. If you are looking to have someone help you with daily tasks such as bathing, getting dressed, and eating you will want to focus your search on assisted living facilities. This is especially important to consider if you need, or will need, health services because there is no medical care available in most independent living facilities.
Estimated costs vary greatly, from about $1,000 to $4,000 per month. Most of the folks that we reach out to here in Northeast Tarrant County are paying an average of about $2,000 per month. This may sound overwhelmingly expensive but remember that you will not be responsible for the maintenance of your home, there will be activities available, and the peace of mind provided by a safe, age restricted community can be invaluable.
There are, however, ways to lower the cost. On occasion facilities will deals or promotions. If you have flexibility in terms of timing, keeping an eye on local options and promotions can be a great way to keep costs lower. It is also important to consider long-term and future costs when making financial evaluations. Many independent facilities can be retrofitted, or may have already been built, with mobility restricted people in mind. If you are thinking about staying in your home but the house is not ideal for mobility, you may have to spend $5,000 or $10,000 making safety and accessibility updates in the future. It may be better for you budget-wise to move into an independent living facility.
There are many factors to consider when choosing the Senior housing option that works best for you and your family. Be sure to make an informed decision, do your research, and interview all professionals and facilities before signing any contracts. If you need help or would like a copy of Home To Home: The Step By Step Senior Housing Guide, contact our office.
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