These Attributes Are Important To Look For When Choosing An Independent Living Community
Deciding to sell your current residence and move into independent living is a big choice for any elderly person. While the change might be significant, you'll appreciate the varied benefits that independent living can offer you. If you're not in a rush to move into independent living, it's ideal to take a methodical approach to finding the right community for you. You can visit several independent living homes, and even arrange some short-term stays as a guest, to help you decide which one will best suit your needs. Here are some attributes that you'll want to look for.
Proximity To Public Transit
It's probable that you own a vehicle and enjoy driving right now, but this might not always be the case. There may come in a time in a year or even in a few years that you decide to give up your license and vehicle. When this day comes, you don't want to be constantly relying on family members when you need to get around town, nor spending unnecessary money calling a taxi to take you to medical appointments, shopping, or the library. It's ideal if your independent living community is located within close proximity to public transit. You'll often find homes that are just a short walk away from the nearest bus stop, which is valuable for residents.
Care Areas
When you move into independent living at a facility like Good Shepherd Health Center, you're able to care for yourself entirely. However, this might not always be the case. If you're concerned that your health may decline in the future, it's useful to select an independent living community that offers care areas to residents who need some help. For example, some independent living facilities are connected to assisted living facilities. If you're in the former but are struggling, you can easily make the move to the latter — perhaps just down a series of halls — and begin receiving the care that you need.
Active Social Agenda
Given that you're still comfortable living independently, you may have a strong desire to lead an active life in your new surroundings. Instead of having to come up with things to do, it's ideal if you can select an independent living community that offers its residents an active social calendar. Multiple on-site events taking place each day, regular outings into the community, and other things that you'll enjoy can all help to make your years in independent living full and fulfilling.