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For older adults who don’t need a ton of support everyday, independent senior living is a great option. Geared toward seniors who are — you guessed it — independent, these communities provide things like socialization, outings, fitness classes and more.
“Independent senior living refers to communities designed specifically for older adults who are still mostly self-sufficient but want to simplify their lives a bit,” explains Brett Koenig, a managing partner at Senior Living Search Partners in St. Louis. “These communities typically offer private apartments or cottages, with services like meals, housekeeping, transportation and social activities included in a flat monthly rate.”
As Koenig puts it, independent senior living allows folks to trade in the “hassle of home maintenance for the ease of a supportive, senior-focused environment.”
Here, Koenig and others explain the different options for independent living, along with the benefits of these setups and more.
Key takeaways
- Independent senior living is for adults 55+ who are mostly self-sufficient and want a low-maintenance lifestyle with social activities and amenities.
- Senior independent living options include senior apartments, retirement communities, 55+ communities and continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs).
- The independent living option that is “best” for you or your aging loved one will depend on individual needs, preferences and resources.
What is independent living for seniors?
Independent senior living communities are residential communities designed for adults around 55+ that offer room, board and other amenities for a monthly fee.
“Some are associated with assisted living, nursing homes and continuing care communities, which offer residents a certain level of medical assistance based on their needs and are priced relative to services,” explains Dr. Elizabeth Landsverk, a geriatrician and author of “Living in the Moment: A Guide to Overcoming Challenges and Finding Moments of Joy in Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias.”
“Independent living is ideal for seniors who are fully autonomous today. But if you have a medical condition that could progress, or you anticipate needing help with daily activities down the road, you may want to choose a community that offers higher levels of care on campus.”
— Jeremy Clerc, founder of Assisted Living magazine
Independent senior living options
Independent senior living is a blanket term for a type of living setup for older adults. With that said, there are a few variations to consider.
Senior apartments
Apartment buildings that are age-restricted but don’t necessarily offer meals, activities or much support are usually referred to as senior apartments, notes Koenig. “These may not typically be considered ‘true’ independent senior living communities in context of the greater senior living industry,” he says.
True independent living communities include dining, housekeeping, activities and more, says Koenig,.
Read more:
What are senior apartments? Experts explain the independent living option
Independent living homes
“Independent living homes” are often used interchangeably with “retirement communities.” Generally, these communities are for residents 62+ with some lowering to 55+, says Jeremy Clerc, CEO and founder of Assisted Living Magazine.
“These are for folks looking for a bit more non-medical support and hospitality than an active adult community,” he says, adding that the living spaces are typically apartment- or cottage-style.
Services and amenities that may be included in independent living homes:
- Meals and dining.
- Housekeeping.
- Maintenance.
- Laundry.
- Transportation.
- Planned activities.
- On-site gym.
- Theater, activities, etc.
- On-site staff.
55+ communities/active adult communities
Similar to independent living homes and retirement communities, 55+ and active adult communities are often used interchangeably. These living setups, which are often cottages, homes or townhomes, often feel more like neighborhoods and tend to be lifestyle-focused, according to Koenig. “Think pools, walking trails, clubhouses and services like dining or housekeeping sometimes available for an extra fee,” he says.
“The residents in active adult communities are fully independent,” notes Clerc who adds that residents can typically own or lease their property.
Services and amenities that may be included:
Maintenance like landscaping (with HOA fees)
- On-site pools.
- Tennis courts.
- Walking trails.
- Clubhouse.
- Scheduled social events.
Read more:
What are active senior living communities — and is one right for you?
Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs)
Some independent living communities offer multiple levels of care, including assisted living, skilled nursing or even memory care, which allows residents a “continuum of care,” Clerc notes. “These are great for those looking to age-in-place and not have to move as health needs change.” These are usually called continuing care retirement life plan communities.
Services:
CCRCs mostly follow the services of an independent living community, notes Clerc, with a seamless transition to higher levels of care when needed (at increase montly cost).
Other amenities may include:
- Dining venues.
- Fitness center.
- Swimming pool.
- Walking trails.
- Golf courses.
- Library.
- Beauty salons.
- Group activities.
Read more:
What are continuing care retirement communities?
Costs and payment options
Whether renting or buying, independent living communities aren’t cheap. “Renting requires signing a lease and paying upfront fees before moving in,” says Landsverk. “Rents are typically between $1,000-$5,000 per month or more, not including utilities, and some amenities and services may have a cost attached.”
“When buying,” she continues, “be prepared to pay a substantial upfront fee after which you’ll pay monthly maintenance fees, association dues, real estate taxes/assessments, renovations and utilities. Entrance fees can range anywhere from the low six figures to well over $1 million.”
Also keep in mind, location affects rates, as well. According to Senior Living, the median monthly cost for independent living in the U.S. is $3,065. That being said, in Maine, where costs are highest for independent living, the average rate is $6,100 per month. On the other end of the spectrum, though, in Mississippi, they’re $1,281.
According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), most residents of independent living pay for it through a “combination of personal savings, social security, pension payments, retirement accounts, proceeds from the sale of their home or other private funds.”
“There’s just no substitute for getting a feel for the environment, the staff and the other residents.”
— Brett Koenig, senior living specialist
How to choose the right independent living option
What’s “best” will depend on one’s individual needs, preferences and resources. Here are a few guidelines and factors to consider when making your choice:
Assess current and future needs
Don’t just think about how you or a loved one are feeling today, consider what the future may bring. “Independent living is ideal for seniors who are fully autonomous today,” Clerc notes. “But if you have a medical condition that could progress, or you anticipate needing help with daily activities down the road, you may want to choose a community that offers higher levels of care on campus.”
Consider the amenities that matter most
“If enjoying gourmet meals is your passion, there are many upscale facilities that offer fine dining,” explains Landsverk. “Some are equipped with yoga studios, lap pools and tennis courts. Do your research and find just the right fit.” You don’t want to pay for services and amenities that won’t be used.
Consider the location and community size
Think about where you want to live and the kind of community environment you prefer. Do you want to remain in your hometown or closer to your adult children? Is it important to you to have your doctors or faith community nearby? Location can affect your happiness – for example, being close enough for family to visit frequently, or choosing a climate (warm sunbelt vs. four seasons) that you enjoy.
Tour a few
Koenig recommends visiting a few communities. “There’s just no substitute for getting a feel for the environment, the staff and the other residents,” he says.
Consider enlisting a professional
Aren’t sure where to begin or how to make your choice? Outsource. “A senior living advisor can also be a helpful resource in narrowing down options that actually make sense for your specific needs and budget,” notes Koenig.
Budget and financial fit
You’ll need to choose an independent living option that aligns with your financial resources. Look at both upfront costs and ongoing monthly fees for each option under consideration. Determine what is comfortably affordable given your income, savings, and any assets like a home sale.
A final word on independent living
Ultimately, independent senior living communities are great for aging adults who want to stay engaged socially, while having a place that feels like home — and who have the financial means.
According to Clerc, independent living is a “great option for retirees who want to enjoy retirement without the burdens of home ownership.”
