Independent Living and Retirement Communities

What is independent living?

Independent living facilities, also called retirement communities or retirement homes, provide a carefree lifestyle. Older adults who want to enjoy retirement without the responsibilities of home upkeep and other daily chores often thrive in senior independent living communities. Independent living offers dining options, housekeeping and maintenance services, and plenty of opportunities for social activities.

What services and amenities does independent living provide?

• New Trends Retirement Communities
• Senior Independent Living: Hillary’s Story
• Why Personal Trainers Are Trending at Retirement Communities

What is the difference between independent living and other types of senior living communities?

• Retirement Communities for Active Adults
• Assisted Living vs. Independent Living: What’s the Difference?
• Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs): An All-in-One Senior Living Option

Why choose independent living?

Companionship, social activities, restaurant-style dining, and a safe community environment are just a few of the reasons why seniors choose independent living. Many retirement communities also offer senior-friendly features, such as walk-in showers, well-lit hallways, and emergency alert systems.

Is independent living right for me?

• 9 Proven Reasons Why Senior Living is the Clear Choice for Senior Safety and Happiness
• 4 Reasons Why Independent or Assisted Living May Trump Living Alone
• Finding LGBT Retirement Communities and Challenges of LGBT Senior Living

What does independent living cost?

Independent living costs vary depending on location, community amenities, and apartment size and features. The U.S. national median price for independent living is $2,552 a month. Independent living is for generally healthy seniors. This means Medicare, Medicaid, and Veterans resources, such as VA Aid and Attendance, don’t pay for retirement living.

Independent living costs and how to save

• Retirement Living Costs
• Costs of Elder Care: Assisted Living, Independent Living, and In-Home Care
• Tips to Help You Expand Your Retirement Income

How do you choose an independent living facility?

Independent living communities come in all shapes and sizes to fit seniors’ tastes, personalities, and budget. From large communities with resort-like amenities — such as pools, hot tubs, pubs, and golf courses — to smaller retirement homes, most offer onsite beauty salons and barber shops, and scheduled transportation for outings, shopping and medical appointments.

Tips and tools to help you choose the right independent living community near you

• Things to Check Out Before You Check In, In Senior Living
• An Introvert’s Guide to Senior Living Communities
• 6 Tips for Touring Senior Communities Virtually and In-Person