Independent senior living is a rewarding and engaging way for people to spend their golden years. These communities are a great choice for individuals who want to maintain a strong sense of freedom while being able to access assistance and care if needed in the future.
Investing in independent senior living can also be financially beneficial. Below, we explore the average costs and advantages of choosing this avenue for yourself or a retired loved one.
Independent living communities, also known as senior living neighborhoods or retirement communities, allow individuals ages 55 and older to enjoy a new chapter of their lives without the burdens of home ownership.
Independent living offers seniors many benefits, including:
How much senior living costs will largely depend on these four factors:
An independent community’s location directly impacts the average monthly cost of senior living. The city and neighborhood can cause a facility to raise or lower its prices. For example, major metropolitan areas tend to have higher living expenses, and rural or suburban neighborhoods are often more affordable.
The cost of living for seniors in independent communities will also change according to the specific unit or house they choose.
The square footage and floor plan significantly impact the costs. Larger spaces are typically more expensive, and different fees, like maintenance or housekeeping, may differ depending on a home’s size.
The amenities and services an independent living community provides, from fitness centers to property maintenance to weekly laundry services, will also affect overall costs.
However, paying for these memberships or services individually is often more expensive than what residents pay monthly to live in these communities.
Different communities offer varying care services that can impact overall costs. For example, one community may offer around-the-clock access to on-call nurses, while another may have set hours for on-property medical assistance. The level of care and available on-site medical facilities will influence how much residents spend each month.
Independent living is often a cost-effective choice for older adults. The median monthly cost for an independent living facility is $3,065 in the United States, and the median expenses vary from state to state. In Pennsylvania, the estimated monthly cost of independent living is $2,420.
Residents may also need to pay an entrance fee or security deposit, but these are one-off expenses. In many communities, these costs encompass robust daily activities, services, facilities and amenities.
The real value of independent living goes far beyond the financial aspects. Its amenities and services give residents a place to connect with others and feel at home. Here are a few standard perks that older adults can enjoy.
Staff members usually take care of basic housekeeping services. These may include tasks like vacuuming the floors, dusting, doing the laundry, making the bed and removing trash. Residents can enjoy a tidy, hygienic space while saving time and energy. They can then spend this energy on activities that are important to them.
Many independent living communities also handle ongoing maintenance needs, so residents don’t have to worry about duties like mowing the lawn or hiring a professional for appliance repairs.
Utilities like sewer, electricity, trash collection and water are usually bundled in one monthly cost at independent living communities, making payments convenient and easier to manage.
Bundled utilities can reduce the average cost of independent living for seniors, as individual payments for each service can quickly add up.
Senior independent living homes can be spacious and beautiful. Some quality options have attractive, comfortable floor plans and custom designer touches, such as hardwood floors and cherry cabinetry. Many units also come with a fully fitted kitchen, perfect for those who enjoy cooking or hosting friends.
Some independent living communities serve nutritious restaurant-style meals in a communal dining area. Eating together allows residents to make new friends and spend quality time together. It’s like going out to eat every day while enjoying the convenience of being close to home.
Building fun, meaningful relationships with other individuals is a key factor that makes the cost of senior living well worth it. The golden years are a time to make connections and truly enjoy life. Neighbors in independent living communities are typically around the same age and often share similar interests.
Residents can also enjoy all the planned activities, from shopping trips to exciting excursions. One of the main benefits of living in retirement communities is socializing and going on adventures with new and old friends.
Most high-quality independent retirement communities offer 24-hour security and nursing support as part of their amenities. Residents can go outside for a walk or feel comfortable at home, knowing they are safe.
Easily accessible medical care means that people can call for help if an emergency occurs. These properties are also designed with older people in mind, so units include handrails, emergency call systems and grab bars to assist with walking.
Having fun is a must, and with so many on-site amenities, residents can enjoy themselves to the fullest. Exciting amenities may include:
Residents can stay on the property for an outing with friends.
If you’re looking for an independent living community, Elm Terrace in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, might be the perfect fit. Our residents enjoy a safe and stunning living area with dining venues, a garden club, a game room and skilled nursing on-site. We care about each resident and work hard to provide them with everything they need under one roof.
Check out our virtual tour for a view of our daily activities. We also offer flexible financial options with different levels of care so residents have more freedom over their costs.
Feel free to call us at 215-361-5600 or schedule a free lunch and tour, and let us help you find the best plan to meet your unique needs and budget.
