What Is the Best Age to Move into Independent Living?

There’s a misconception in our society that senior living communities are only suited for people of advanced age who have health problems and/or minimal independence. Fortunately, that outdated notion is becoming more and more recognized as a myth. While many seniors still choose to age in place at home, the myriad benefits of making the move to senior living are driving more and more seniors to opt for independent living in a Life Plan Community, also known as a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC).

The best age to move into independent living varies from person to person, of course, but there are many reasons why moving sooner rather than later is often the best decision you can make.

Below are several important reasons why you or your loved one should consider moving to independent living sooner rather than later.

Leaving Home Maintenance Behind

The maintenance-free lifestyle senior living residents enjoy every day is among the most valuable draws of an independent living community. Community team members take care of mowing the lawn, landscaping, home maintenance and housecleaning. Residents find their lifestyle becomes much more enjoyable without the burdens of home care. They’re able to focus more on the things that bring them joy rather than worrying about housekeeping and fixing this and that around the house. When you move to independent living, a whole new world of possibilities and opportunities open up to you. Forgetting about home maintenance is just the beginning.

Protecting Your Finances

Many seniors today think that moving to a Life Plan Community or CCRC c is outrageously expensive. The fact is, when compared to the ever-rising costs of senior care and general cost of living, retirement community CCRCs are a fiscally sound investment. Moving to a Life Plan Community as a younger senior ensures that you’re locked into a predictable monthly fee after your entrance fee costs, so no matter the level of care you might need in the future, you’re guaranteed to get that care at significantly less cost than on the open market. Plus, you can receive all the care you need without making another move.

Safeguarding Your Health

One of the most valuable aspects of a CCRC or Life Plan Community – like Jefferson’s Ferry – is that residents can transition from one level of care to another without moving from the community and having to get used to an entirely new environment. These communities offer various kinds of financial contracts, each structured differently based on how much long-term care will be provided and at what cost. Some communities offer only one kind of contract, while others offer several options.

If the community offers a Type A Life Care contract, as Jefferson’s Ferry does, everyone moving into independent living who chooses that contract will have priority access to on-site assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing care, and rehabilitation services. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that if you ever need long-term care, you know who will provide it, where you’ll get it, and how much it will cost. So, by moving to a CCRC earlier rather than later, you’re ensuring no matter what happens in the future, you’ll have the appropriate level of care available right where you live.

Boosting Your Social Life

Senior living communities offer older adults a thriving social life during their retirement years. All too often, seniors choosing to age in place at home suffer from isolation as their social life dwindles. This kind of isolation can contribute to depression and other negative effects on your mental health. In independent living, surrounded by like-minded people who share your interests and passion to accomplish more during this stage of life, you’ll discover countless opportunities to socialize. Many communities even provide structured social programming on a weekly basis. Happy Hours, hobbyist groups, live entertainment and holiday parties are common. Companionship is an important factor in successful aging, and the sooner you move to independent living, the more opportunities you’ll have to enjoy every minute of it.

Maintaining Your Independence

Of all the many benefits of living in a Life Plan Community/CCRC, the most valuable is the ability to live independently for as long as possible. Contrary to popular belief, making the move to an independent living community helps seniors maintain the level of activity and lifestyle they want for longer compared to those who choose to stay in their home. The wide variety of engaging activities, programming, services, and amenities in senior living communities leaves you free to spend your time exactly how you want, while simultaneously offering ways to keep your mind sharp, body healthy and spirits up. Overall, the best age to move to independent living is the moment you’re ready to let someone else take care of all your have-to’s, so you can concentrate on all your want-to’s … with a whole lot less worrying about the what-ifs in life.

Live Independently at Jefferson’s Ferry

Here at Jefferson’s Ferry, we encourage every resident to live life on their own terms. These are, after all, your golden years. We believe you should have the freedom and independence to make the most of retirement – and do it for as long as possible. Visit us and you’ll see for yourself how this is truly independent living. To learn more about our community, or to schedule your personal visit, contact us through our website or call us at (631) 650-2600.