Independent senior living is a vibrant lifestyle option designed for older adults seeking a sense of freedom, community, and convenience in a secure and supportive environment. This form of living provides individuals with the opportunity to maintain an active, self-reliant lifestyle while enjoying a range of amenities, social activities, and services tailored to their preferences and needs. Independent senior living communities offer a blend of comfort and autonomy, providing residents with private residences, various on-site conveniences, and a diverse array of engaging activities, fostering a fulfilling and enriching lifestyle in a community of peers.
Rent or Own?
The term Independent Living is used generally to promote senior apartment style living. If you are independent, the two important questions to ask are:
- Do you want to own or rent?
- Do you want to change communities or move again if you need assistance?
Most of the clients that we work with at Choice Connections prefer to rent because they don’t want to put the burden on selling property to others, and more importantly, they don’t want to have to make two moves. However, there are options for both renting or owning apartments or townhomes/condominiums in Independent Living for seniors in the Twin Cities area.
Rental Independent Living Communities for Seniors
Independent Living is designed for active, healthy seniors who want to live their best lives in
a community where they can “age in place.” These are usually rental apartments or homes that are within a community that has many amenities and services available. There are many choices for Independent Living options that provide a month-to-month lease as well as offer transportation and some basic services. This typically means that some or all of the following services are available: dining, housekeeping and laundry. Independent Living facilities do not provide medical or personal care – if you need personal care, you will have to contract with an “in-home care” provider.
Independent Senior Living buildings typically include a basic package of services and amenities included in the rent. What each community includes varies quite a bit. Here is a list of what might be included:
- 24-hour, on-site staff
- Utilities: water, heat, electric, trash, sometimes phone, cable, internet
- Transportation for shopping and healthcare appointments
- 1-3 meals a day, plus snacks
- Cultural activities
- Wellness programs
- Laundry assistance
- Housekeeping
Not all Independent Living buildings offer staff 24/7. If you are looking for a continuum of care community where you can “age in place,” staffing around the clock should be a requirement.
Senior Independent Living for Homeowners
If you want to own, then cooperatives and condominiums, as well as townhomes, are options to consider. They require less home maintenance and usually have landscaping and facility repairs included for community members. When considering these options, you should have a plan for down the road if you need services. You will need to either bring in services as you age or make another move.
Choosing a Twin Cities Independent Living Community Near Me
If you are an active senior who wants to explore the options available in senior communities in the greater Minneapolis and St. Paul, MN, area, contact our Senior Living Advisors at Choice Connections. We can match you with an Independent Living community that will help you live your best life and age in the manner you choose. Call us today to schedule a consultation with one of our local Twin Cities senior living experts.