Independent Living 101: Benefits, Types and Costs
Ever wondered what life at an independent living community is like?
Here’s a helpful overview of some of the most important things you need to know —including the many benefits that await you, the different types of communities you can choose from, and some of the most frequently asked questions about what it might cost.
Just as the name suggests, independent living communities give seniors the perfect opportunity to maintain their independence while enjoying a carefree lifestyle filled with resort-like amenities that may not be available to them at home. The end result is an enhanced quality of life, greater overall well-being and more fulfilling retirement years.
And that’s just the beginning. Here are a few more benefits:
A maintenance-free lifestyle. Independent living allows you to say goodbye to the burdens of maintaining a home. Communities like Westminster offer services such as housekeeping and maintenance services that take care of many of the routine daily chores you might typically do in your home.
Restaurant-style dining. Cooking every meal? A thing of the past. Senior living communities provide delicious cuisine with a variety of nutritious options, often prepared by professional chefs. At Westminster, we also offer private dining with friends and family and casual dining in The Bistro, giving you the flexibility to dine when and how you’d like.
A wealth of ways to stay healthy. Amenities like heated pools, saunas and on-site fitness centers equipped with the latest exercise machines make it easy to stay active. And this is often supported by a wide range of wellness programs tailored specifically for seniors — including seminars, nutritional counseling, yoga, fitness classes and personal training.
A vibrant social scene. Camaraderie and a full social calendar happen here. You’ll be able to mingle and make connections with recreational activities that often include book clubs, art classes, pottery classes, movie nights, happy hours, picnics, holiday parties and much more.
Inviting outdoor spaces. Independent living communities typically boast beautifully landscaped grounds, including walking paths, gardens and courtyards that allow you to enjoy the outdoors without leaving your community.
Access to complimentary transportation. Many communities also provide you with reliable transportation for group outings, shopping trips, medical appointments and other errands.
3 Types of Independent Living Communities
Ready to explore your options for independent living? The first step is choosing a community that’s right for you. Here are the three main types:
- Active Adult Communities (also known as 55+ Communities). Ideal for seniors who are fully independent — preferring to live on their own but near each other, and looking for a lifestyle with minimal maintenance and plenty of recreational activities. Just like residents who live in a traditional apartment complex, residents here enjoy popular amenities like clubhouses for gatherings, fitness centers, pools, tennis courts and more. Active Adult Communities typically don’t offer any services beyond the building’s amenities.
- Rental Retirement Communities. Seniors in these communities are fully able to take care of themselves and perform daily tasks, but they’re ready for an even more simplified, carefree lifestyle. After an initial security deposit, residents pay a monthly fee that includes rent as well as services not offered at Active Adult Communities — such as prepared meals, housekeeping and transportation — while enjoying amenities and community living with others. Many Rental Retirement Communities also offer on-site assisted living and memory care services as well.
- Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), also known as Life Plan Communities. Featuring a variety of residences on a large campus, this is a great option for many older adults. Life Plan Communities like Westminster allow seniors to have priority access to a full continuum of care for the rest of their lives. So as they move through retirement and their needs change over time, they can seamlessly transition to other levels of care without having to leave the community they call home. In essence, this provides the ultimate financial predictability and peace of mind. By paying an entrance fee, residents benefit from a guaranteed spot and lower cost for assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and short-term rehabilitation if needed.
Independent Living Costs
Naturally, questions about cost often come up when exploring independent living community options — and of course your budget is always an important consideration as you look into different communities. Here are the financial questions we’re asked most frequently:
How much does independent living typically cost? Costs can vary depending on location, amenities and housing type, but they typically range from $1,500 to $6,000 per month — with the national median cost of an independent living community being $3,100 per month.*
What’s included in the monthly fee for independent living? The monthly fee often includes rent, utilities, maintenance, transportation, most meals and access to amenities and regularly scheduled activities. (It’s important to clarify what services and amenities are included in this fee and which are extra.) Many of our Westminster residents tell us that having everything under one monthly fee helps them simplify their expenses.
What’s an entrance fee? Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), also referred to as Life Plan Communities, require a one-time entrance fee that guarantees a spot in the community and covers a portion of future care costs. Entrance fees and some monthly fees may qualify as medical expenses. Because these are potentially deductible if you’re itemizing deductions, this could result in a lower taxable income.
At Westminster, we offer the flexibility of a variety of entrance fee agreements to meet your needs and provide an option just right for you.
Are there any additional fees associated with independent living? Be sure to ask about extra charges for specific services like in-home healthcare, additional dining options or special activities that might not be included in the monthly fee.
Should I expect rent increases? Monthly fees can increase over time, so it’s crucial to understand the community’s policy on rent adjustments.
*2024 Cost of Long-Term Care Report, A Place for Mom
Other questions we’re frequently asked at Westminster:
What factors should I consider when choosing an independent living community? Location is always important, as well as costs, amenities, community culture and the level of care available if you need it in the future. It’s a great idea to research online, visit communities and talk to current residents to get a feel for the environment and services offered.
How do independent living communities ensure the safety and security of their residents? Many communities like Westminster have emergency call systems, secure entrances and on-site staff available 24/7 to address any concerns or emergencies.
Can couples live together in an independent living community? Yes, many communities offer housing options suitable for couples.
Are there any age restrictions for independent living communities? Most communities have a minimum age requirement, typically ranging from 55 to 65 years old.
Can residents customize their living spaces? Most communities give you the opportunity to personalize your space with paint colors, window treatments and other decorative touches that make your home truly your own. Anything beyond that, such as a minor renovation, depends on the community.
An independent living community is about making the most of your retirement years, spending more time on the things you truly enjoy, and leading an engaging and rewarding lifestyle.
When you feel ready to learn more about independent living, we’re always here to help you explore your options and discuss our pricing structure — so you can make a well-informed decision and live your life to the fullest. Contact us today and let’s see how we can be Extraordinary, Together.
