Most seniors assume that when they transition from their home to a lifestyle community they’re giving up their independence… that they’re almost accepting the ‘next stage’ of life. And while it is true that those who move to lifestyle communities are entering a new stage in their lives, this new stage will actually IMPROVE their independence in most cases.
In fact, data supports that moving to an independent living community actually increases a person’s life expectancy. Let’s explore how moving into a senior living community can actually improve a person’s independence and even add years to their life!
Staying Social
Staying social is important for seniors. With age, we become less mobile which can often make individuals feel trapped accompanied by feelings of depression, loneliness, or isolation. By participating in activities and groups beyond the four walls of your home, those feelings of isolation decrease and happiness increases.
A lack of independence for an individual can also cause them to feel withdrawn from society. It’s important to maintain hobbies and interests. The more that seniors continue to do the things that they did while living on their own, the more self-sufficient they will feel.
From Our Vantage Point:
A lifestyle community provides daily opportunities to engage with neighbors and friends, just steps from your door
Living Without Burden
When we ask older adults what living independently means to them, a common answer is “the ability to stay in my home until I’m no longer able to.” But upon deeper discovery, we often learn that they have support coming into their home to help with yard work, home maintenance, cleaning, laundry, and other household chores.
Is this really living independently? For some yes – because they embrace the free time that comes with extra help and stay active outside the home. For many, however, too much time is still spent managing the moving parts that come with additional support and, worse yet, may be isolating at home.
TRULY living independently means that, regardless of where you live, you’re actually LIVING life the way you want to.
From Our Vantage Point:
When you move to a senior lifestyle community, you’re giving up the hassles and burdens that come along with home ownership and gaining the freedom to spend your time doing things you enjoy doing.
Staying Active
Physical activity is an extremely vital asset in a person’s well-being and shouldn’t be overlooked. Whether you’ve been active all your life, or are taking baby steps to a more active lifestyle, fitness is one of the simplest things you can do to age well and live longer. If you’re taking small steps to getting moving, consider an activity or exercise that you enjoy doing and make it a part of your regular routine.
From Our Vantage Point:
Retirement communities offer a wide range of opportunities to stay physically and mentally fit. A team of professionals are on staff 365 days a year to offer engaging activities and programs for all residents to enjoy.
Living “Life. Your Way.”
There is no better definition of independence than this: the ability to live your life the way you want it. That’s what “Life. Your Way.” means to us at Vantage Point. And if staying at home is living life the way you want to, then who are we to judge!
But for those who understand that independence isn’t a house but a lifestyle, we’re here to help you EMBRACE your independence and live the lifestyle of your dreams. Our communities are designed to help you enjoy life the way that you want, surrounded by those who share your interests and passions. Visit our website to find out more!
