Photo by eberhard grossgasteiger

Originally Posted On: https://www.calamar.com/why-more-seniors-prefer-independent-senior-living-communities

The benefits of independent senior living communities are greater than many of the alternatives. Here’s why more seniors are preferring to live in these independent communities.

It will come as no surprise that the Baby Boomer generation is rewriting retirement as we know it. In fact, three out of five Boomers report working long past the median retirement age of 62.

Why? It’s partially for financial reasons, but also largely because Boomers aren’t ready to slow down, or to settle for a life of golfing and shuffleboard. Increasing numbers of them are opting for independent senior living communities, as well, to further enhance their quality of life. Let’s learn more!

Social Butterflies Will Thrive

One reason that Baby Boomers choose independent living is for the social aspect. Here, they can meet an entire community of new friends. Being surrounded by their peers is especially important for those whose children have moved away.

Loneliness isn’t just bad for our emotional state; it can have direct and debilitating effects on our physical health. Increased stress levels and inflammation can lead to heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and dementia.

All of the Fun, None of the Chores

After a lifetime spent cleaning up after others, the last thing many seniors want is more housework or yard chores. That’s where independent senior communities are a huge boon. Most of them provide maintenance service, and even exercise and dining facilities.

When they move into senior living, Boomers can also say goodbye to outdoor chores such as mowing the lawn and shoveling snow — not to mention home repairs like fixing a leaky toilet or installing a smoke detector.

Freedom from the daily grind of cleaning and weeding means more time for fun!

Activities Galore

Speaking of fun, senior living provides a wealth of social opportunities: weekly activities and classes, organized travel and jaunts, and celebrations for every holiday.

Enjoy playing pickleball? Scrapbooking? Wii bowling? Trips to the outlet mall or casino? These activities are just a drop in the bucket. Senior living communities offer a wide variety of classes, outings, and parties.

Amenities at Independent Senior Living Communities

Many of these communities boast onsite amenities such as walking trails, guest speakers, movie theatre rooms, field trips, libraries, and lounges. Whether you want to work out, relax and watch a movie, or listen to a jazz quartet as you sip a cocktail, they’ve got you covered!

Stay Safe and Worry-Free

For many older Americans, safety and physical well-being are major concerns. What happens if a senior falls, catches a cold, has a bout of stomach flu, or sprains an ankle? One of the biggest benefits of living in a senior community is that there’s always someone on hand to help.

Some facilities have trained medical professionals on staff, but all of them have trained employees who are caring, compassionate, and readily available in the event of an emergency health or safety issue.

Wrapping Up

Ask any Baby Boomer who has made the transition from rattling around in their empty nest to life at independent senior living communities, and you are likely to hear rave reviews.

Don’t just take our word for it; find the 55+ independent living community that’s right for you!