Tips on Finding the Best Active Independent Living Communities
Based on findings in 2023, senior housing occupancy reached 84.4%, indicating a positive trend towards senior living communities as a preferred living option. This highlights a growing acceptance and preference for senior living arrangements tailored to the needs and desires of older adults in the US.
Active independent living communities offer a great option, providing older adults with the opportunity to experience a low-maintenance lifestyle, build meaningful friendships, and explore new passions, all while maintaining a sense of autonomy and independence.
Whether you’re considering options for yourself or a loved one, read on for valuable tips from our team at Balfour Senior Living on navigating the selection process and finding the perfect active independent living community.
What is an Active Independent Living Community?
Active independent living communities are generally categorized into age-restricted communities, tailored for individuals above a specified age, with amenities catering to their interests. These communities typically enforce an age minimum, ensuring at least one household member is 55 or older, in compliance with the Housing for Older Persons Act. This legislation protects older adults from displacement by younger residents.
Common features of active independent living communities include communal spaces like clubhouses, restaurants, gyms, and theaters. However, each community varies in offerings and amenities.
Additionally, these communities implement rules to maintain safety and upkeep. Such environments have regulations aimed at establishing unity. Living alongside several residents requires policies, procedures, and guidelines governing community conduct. These rules often cover landscaping, architectural standards, cleanliness of shared areas, noise levels, and waste disposal.
Things to Consider When Choosing an Active Independent Living Community
- Amenities
Numerous active independent living communities have diverse onsite amenities, ranging from expansive options to more modest offerings like a community clubhouse or house of worship. When choosing an independent living community, residents often prioritize the amenities they look for when booking a vacation. Preferences may include features such as theatres, fine dining options, recreation rooms, or proximity to recreational areas, reflecting individual desires and lifestyle preferences. Identifying a wish list for amenities is crucial when selecting an active independent living community.
- Location
When selecting active independent living communities, location plays a pivotal role in determining your satisfaction and well-being. Firstly, consider the proximity to your family members and loved ones. Being close to family not only establishes a sense of connection and support but also ensures that you can easily visit and spend quality time together.
Equally important is the accessibility to healthcare services. Check whether there are reputable medical facilities, clinics, and hospitals nearby. Having easy access to healthcare ensures that you can quickly address any medical concerns or emergencies that may arise, providing peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.
You should also take into account the climate of the area. Consider whether you prefer a warmer or cooler climate and how it aligns with your lifestyle and preferences. A climate that aligns with your preferences can greatly enhance your enjoyment and comfort in your new living environment.
At Balfour Senior Living, we offer several conveniently located independent living communities, including our five locations in Louisville. Whether you’re located in Colorado or want to relocate to Michigan, we have several options for your convenience.
- Sense of Community
When considering an active independent living community, it’s highly advisable to immerse yourself in their community. You may want to attend one of their community events or schedule a casual visit during a weekday to observe. When you attend the events and observe the day-to-day lifestyle of residents, you can gain a genuine understanding of what it would be like to live there. Engaging with current residents and participating in community activities allows you to experience the atmosphere, social dynamics, and culture firsthand. This is invaluable in helping you determine whether the community aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.
It’s also essential to inquire about the community’s future developments and plans. Ask about potential new construction projects, renovations, or infrastructure improvements that may impact residents’ experiences. Additionally, inquire about any potential changes to community guidelines, rules, or fees. While such details may not be readily available in marketing materials, management should be able to provide information and address any concerns you may have.
- The Staff
When evaluating an independent living community, pay attention to the interactions between the staff and residents, as well as with visitors like yourself. Observe how the staff members engage with residents. Are they attentive, respectful, and friendly? Do they show care and concern for the residents? These observations can offer valuable insights into the quality of care and the atmosphere of the community.
Staff retention rates also serve as another indicator of the community’s atmosphere and management quality. Low turnover rates can indicate a stable and supportive work environment, where staff members feel valued and motivated to stay long-term. To gain a better understanding of management quality, directly ask about staff turnover rates during your visit. Speaking with both management and residents can provide insights into the community’s culture, values, and management practices.
- Financial Considerations
The cost of living in an active independent living community can vary depending on the type of community you choose. There’s a wide range of options available, each with its own unique offerings and pricing structures.
For some communities, you may see significant entrance fees in addition to monthly payments. These entrance fees can vary widely and may or may not be refundable depending on the community’s policies. Some independent living communities can also have additional costs for amenities such as transportation services, access to the clubhouses, or dining privileges. These additional expenses can impact your budget and financial planning.
To plan your costs effectively, consult with a financial advisor in the independent living community. They can provide guidance tailored to your financial situation and help you determine which payment structure and amenities align best with your needs and preferences.
How to Save for Retirement
Planning for retirement requires a strategic, long-term approach. Initiating savings and investments early is essential, as it allows for the growth of funds over time. Retirement accounts like 401(k)s or IRAs offer tax advantages and are commonly recommended for creating a foundation for retirement.
In addition to personal savings and investments, Social Security benefits play a significant role in retirement planning. These benefits can help offset housing costs in active retirement communities. Eligible US residents can apply for Social Security benefits between ages 62 and 70, with the amount granted increasing for later applications, up to age 70.
Given the complexities of retirement planning, seeking advice from a qualified retirement advisor is highly advisable. These professionals specialize in various aspects of retirement planning, including investment management, tax strategies, and housing options.
Take a Tour of Our Independent Living Community in Louisville!
At Balfour Senior Living, our independent living community in Louisville meets all your requirements for active independent living. With several community events and a plethora of amenities to keep you active and help you build a sense of community during retirement, Balfour Senior Living is the place for you.
Contact us today to schedule a tour!
Based on findings in 2023, senior housing occupancy reached 84.4%, indicating a positive trend towards senior living communities as a preferred living option. This highlights a growing acceptance and preference for senior living arrangements tailored to the needs and desires of older adults in the US.
Active independent living communities offer a great option, providing older adults with the opportunity to experience a low-maintenance lifestyle, build meaningful friendships, and explore new passions, all while maintaining a sense of autonomy and independence.
Whether you’re considering options for yourself or a loved one, read on for valuable tips from our team at Balfour Senior Living on navigating the selection process and finding the perfect active independent living community.
What is an Active Independent Living Community?
Active independent living communities are generally categorized into age-restricted communities, tailored for individuals above a specified age, with amenities catering to their interests. These communities typically enforce an age minimum, ensuring at least one household member is 55 or older, in compliance with the Housing for Older Persons Act. This legislation protects older adults from displacement by younger residents.
Common features of active independent living communities include communal spaces like clubhouses, restaurants, gyms, and theaters. However, each community varies in offerings and amenities.
Additionally, these communities implement rules to maintain safety and upkeep. Such environments have regulations aimed at establishing unity. Living alongside several residents requires policies, procedures, and guidelines governing community conduct. These rules often cover landscaping, architectural standards, cleanliness of shared areas, noise levels, and waste disposal.
Things to Consider When Choosing an Active Independent Living Community
- Amenities
Numerous active independent living communities have diverse onsite amenities, ranging from expansive options to more modest offerings like a community clubhouse or house of worship. When choosing an independent living community, residents often prioritize the amenities they look for when booking a vacation. Preferences may include features such as theatres, fine dining options, recreation rooms, or proximity to recreational areas, reflecting individual desires and lifestyle preferences. Identifying a wish list for amenities is crucial when selecting an active independent living community.
- Location
When selecting active independent living communities, location plays a pivotal role in determining your satisfaction and well-being. Firstly, consider the proximity to your family members and loved ones. Being close to family not only establishes a sense of connection and support but also ensures that you can easily visit and spend quality time together.
Equally important is the accessibility to healthcare services. Check whether there are reputable medical facilities, clinics, and hospitals nearby. Having easy access to healthcare ensures that you can quickly address any medical concerns or emergencies that may arise, providing peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.
You should also take into account the climate of the area. Consider whether you prefer a warmer or cooler climate and how it aligns with your lifestyle and preferences. A climate that aligns with your preferences can greatly enhance your enjoyment and comfort in your new living environment.
At Balfour Senior Living, we offer several conveniently located independent living communities, including our five locations in Louisville. Whether you’re located in Colorado or want to relocate to Michigan, we have several options for your convenience.
- Sense of Community
When considering an active independent living community, it’s highly advisable to immerse yourself in their community. You may want to attend one of their community events or schedule a casual visit during a weekday to observe. When you attend the events and observe the day-to-day lifestyle of residents, you can gain a genuine understanding of what it would be like to live there. Engaging with current residents and participating in community activities allows you to experience the atmosphere, social dynamics, and culture firsthand. This is invaluable in helping you determine whether the community aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.
It’s also essential to inquire about the community’s future developments and plans. Ask about potential new construction projects, renovations, or infrastructure improvements that may impact residents’ experiences. Additionally, inquire about any potential changes to community guidelines, rules, or fees. While such details may not be readily available in marketing materials, management should be able to provide information and address any concerns you may have.
- The Staff
When evaluating an independent living community, pay attention to the interactions between the staff and residents, as well as with visitors like yourself. Observe how the staff members engage with residents. Are they attentive, respectful, and friendly? Do they show care and concern for the residents? These observations can offer valuable insights into the quality of care and the atmosphere of the community.
Staff retention rates also serve as another indicator of the community’s atmosphere and management quality. Low turnover rates can indicate a stable and supportive work environment, where staff members feel valued and motivated to stay long-term. To gain a better understanding of management quality, directly ask about staff turnover rates during your visit. Speaking with both management and residents can provide insights into the community’s culture, values, and management practices.
- Financial Considerations
The cost of living in an active independent living community can vary depending on the type of community you choose. There’s a wide range of options available, each with its own unique offerings and pricing structures.
For some communities, you may see significant entrance fees in addition to monthly payments. These entrance fees can vary widely and may or may not be refundable depending on the community’s policies. Some independent living communities can also have additional costs for amenities such as transportation services, access to the clubhouses, or dining privileges. These additional expenses can impact your budget and financial planning.
To plan your costs effectively, consult with a financial advisor in the independent living community. They can provide guidance tailored to your financial situation and help you determine which payment structure and amenities align best with your needs and preferences.
How to Save for Retirement
Planning for retirement requires a strategic, long-term approach. Initiating savings and investments early is essential, as it allows for the growth of funds over time. Retirement accounts like 401(k)s or IRAs offer tax advantages and are commonly recommended for creating a foundation for retirement.
In addition to personal savings and investments, Social Security benefits play a significant role in retirement planning. These benefits can help offset housing costs in active retirement communities. Eligible US residents can apply for Social Security benefits between ages 62 and 70, with the amount granted increasing for later applications, up to age 70.
Given the complexities of retirement planning, seeking advice from a qualified retirement advisor is highly advisable. These professionals specialize in various aspects of retirement planning, including investment management, tax strategies, and housing options.
Take a Tour of Our Independent Living Community in Louisville!
At Balfour Senior Living, our independent living community in Louisville meets all your requirements for active independent living. With several community events and a plethora of amenities to keep you active and help you build a sense of community during retirement, Balfour Senior Living is the place for you.
Contact us today to schedule a tour!
