Nowadays, it's become more common for seniors to remain living at home after retirement. While this is an option for some, others make the move to an Independent Living community that feels like home and offers social opportunities and support. You also may find yourself struggling to understand exactly what Independent Living is - which is okay too. Many of these seniors find that they previously misunderstood Independent Living, and thought it was the next step when they started slowing down. The endless number of senior living options can often feel, at times, overwhelming and leave some wondering if any solution is the right one for them. Making the time to learn more about this lifestyle and its benefits allows you to take control of the process and choose a community that feels the most like home to you.
What is Independent Living?
Independent Living is a lifestyle choice that seniors make when they want to maintain their independence and freedom in an active community without worrying about cooking, cleaning, day-to-day upkeep, and the maintenance of owning a home. Making a change to this lifestyle looks different for everyone but is perfect for those who are looking for a comfortable, active, and engaged way of life with excursions, a robust social calendar, and the chance to meet neighbors with similar interests. Alethea Dillow, Sales Director at Commonwealth Senior Living at Williamsburg says, "Independent Living is a step towards more independence and less stress and draws seniors into an extended family. It helps seniors enjoy retirement without the stresses that aging brings, and it gives family members peace of mind knowing their loved one has a social network of support." At Commonwealth, it is important to us that each of our residents feel a sense of community in an environment that supports them and their needs.
Brian Weston, Sales Specialist at Commonwealth Senior Living, notes, "I describe Independent Living as a cruise ship that never leaves port. It's worry-free living where we are here to help in every way possible, and you have the freedom and leisure to participate in our daily programs, dining, and social activities while maintaining your independence."
What amenities and programs are offered in Commonwealth's Independent Living neighborhoods?
As each of our communities is unique, so are the amenities we offer. Here are some of the most common amenities found in our Independent Living neighborhoods:
- Spacious apartment floorplans with storage
- Onsite beauty salon
- Restaurant-style dining
- Library
- Onsite Physical therapy
- Bi-Weekly Housekeeping
- Home maintenance and landscaping
- Scheduled Transportation
- Team Members on Site 24/7
- Personal Care Services available
In addition to these amenities, you'll find our Signature Programs give our residents the opportunity to explore their passions and live life to the fullest. These programs also help our associates form deeper connections with our residents each day.
Alethea says, "One of the most heartbreaking things I see is when a senior is sitting alone in a restaurant because they have no one to go out to eat with. Often, they go out to eat only to be around other people, but when they move to Independent Living, that's completely changed. They are surrounded by people in a community environment every day." At Commonwealth Senior Living, our residents enjoy this sense of community and experience the endless possibilities of all that Independent Living has to offer. She also adds, "Many of our Independent Living residents tell me the only regret they have is not moving in sooner. Why struggle if you don't have to? These are your golden years in retirement. Once you move into our Independent Living community, you have immediate access to people with similar interests, people to eat with at dinner, someone to cook nutritious foods for you, and a housekeeper to clean for you and make the bed. You have a Resident Ambassador to welcome you to the community, introduce you to your new neighbors, invite you to activities, show you where to sign up for the next excursion, and, most importantly, help you navigate the transition to community life."
Is Independent Living at Commonwealth Senior Living the right option for me?
Finding the right senior living community does not look the same for everyone. Remember choosing to make this lifestyle change can often be harder than the move itself.
Brian mentions, "Change is never easy, we as humans do not like it. The thought of leaving a home with memories is real. Being able to guide a family from start to finish through this process, answer questions, explain our Signature Programs, and see our residents thrive after moving is the real factor behind my 'why.' Being able to help, knowing the benefits of this move, and knowing I am saving people's lives is the reason I still bring the same passion today as I did over 10 years ago."
This change Brian mentions is often the reason seniors do not make the move knowing they often could benefit from the level of connection communities offer. Alethea mentions, "In addition to socialization, you're saying goodbye to home maintenance and yard work, you have more accessible exercise classes, and you have help with cooking, cleaning, and laundry. This is where Commonwealth Senior Living shines as many seniors need this added support and the convenient lifestyle Independent Living offers."
Enjoying everything retirement brings without the inconveniences of household chores, maintenance, and upkeep gives you the opportunity to reinvent what living your golden years to the fullest means to you. Because we know this is a big step, we want to give you a few resources along the way to help you start thinking about planning for your ideal future. For more personalized guidance, contact the Independent Living community nearest you.
