Making the move to independent living is a big decision. Independent living can help you enjoy each and every day in an environment tailored to meet your personal needs. But it’s important to remember that all communities are a little bit different, so you need to make sure you choose the right community.

When researching independent living communities, there are 5 key factors to consider:

1. Location and proximity
2. Price
3. Services and amenities
4. Community life
5. Alternate care options

By taking all of these into account, you can make an informed decision and find your future home.

1. Location & Proximity

Location plays a key role when you’re thinking about your future home. The ideal community should be somewhere you love. There are several factors you’ll need to consider, including:

• Accessibility to nearby amenities. Make sure your future home is near the things you love. If you enjoy shopping, make sure that you can get to the nearby stores!
• Proximity to your loved ones. Being close to family and friends can make a significant difference in your quality of life.
• Nearby medical support. It’s always good to be prepared! Check how close healthcare services are, and how transportation to and from these services can be arranged.
• Climate and weather. Do you enjoy warm, sunny weather throughout the year, or do you prefer the snow? Preference plays a role, but older adults are more sensitive to extreme temperatures, so it’s important to consider how the weather can affect you.

2. Price

Price is another crucial element when it comes to finding your future home. Your goal should be to find a place that aligns properly with your budget—without compromising on the amenities and services you need for a higher quality of life.

Make sure you spend some time reading through any financial plans for potential communities. Try to:

• Understand what’s included in all monthly fees. Some communities offer various packages, which can include a mix of utilities, meals, housekeeping, and recreational activities.
• Learn about potential add-on fees. Some communities charge additional prices for transportation, special events, or extra care.
• Verify any contracts or terms of service. Some communities include additional fees, adjusted pricing structures, guaranteed long-term commitments, or cancellation fees. A transparent fee structure is key.
• Check if there are financial assistance options available. Some communities offer programs designed to help with the overall cost of living.

Thoroughly investigating the pricing of each community gives you the information needed to find the best value for your investment.

3. Services & Amenities

Independent living is about enjoying every day doing the things you love. It’s crucial to pick a community that offers services, amenities, and events that meet your lifestyle.

When you’re choosing a community, think about:

• Dining options
• Fitness and wellness programs
• Recreational activities
• Housekeeping and maintenance
• Transportation services
• Security and safety measures

You’re looking for a place that truly offers a vibrant community that feels like home. These activities, events, and amenities are crucial to your quality of life, so make sure that your future home offers access to the things you love.

4. Community Life

Most communities offer the opportunity to schedule a tour ahead of time. This lets you see for yourself what life will be like in the community, so take advantage of the tour.

During your visit, pay attention to the following:

• The atmosphere and overall vibe. Try to gauge how the community feels—does it feel lively and welcoming?
• The friendliness of staff and residents. Friendly, approachable staff and happy residents can be a good indicator of a positive community environment.
• Activities and social events. Check the community’s event calendar and see if they organize activities that interest you.
• Common areas and facilities. Are the common areas well-maintained and inviting? The cleanliness of the community will showcase the level of care everybody has about the environment.

By paying attention to these aspects, you can see whether the community life aligns with your preferences and if it will truly feel like home.

5. Alternate Care Options

Even in an independent living community, you should be planning for the future. Over the years, your needs and capabilities may change, so check if the community offers alternative care options.

Ask the following questions:

• If you were to have a medical emergency, what protocol is in place?
• Are there assisted living or memory care options available in the community? Having these options ensures that if your health needs change, you won’t need to find a new community.
• What type of emergency response system is in place? Ensure the community has reliable and effective emergency alert systems.

It’s important to make sure that the community offers sufficient resources to sustain your quality of life. By investigating these alternate care options, you can ensure that the community you choose will support you throughout different stages of life, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Find a Community That Feels Like Home

Choosing the right independent living community is a personal decision, and it’s crucial to be informed. After all, you’re not just finding a place to live—you’re choosing your future home, and this decision requires care.

If you’re looking for a community that feels like home, contact our team at La Vida Llena. We’re here to help you make the most out of every day. Book a tour with us today!