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Are you considering whether you want to stay in your existing home or move into an independent living community? Perhaps it’s the fulfilling and active lifestyle that’s appealing or the lure of maintenance-free living that’s persuasive. Whatever the reasons, deciding whether to stay in your existing home or to move into an independent living community is a big decision. But considering the benefits of each can help you make the right choice.
Benefits of independent living vs home
1. Your residence
Most people want the privacy and freedom of living in their own home and a sanctuary to return to and recharge. It’s also important that our home is comfortable and a reflection of our personality and preferences.
Advantages of staying in your current home:
You’re already there
No need to pack up or downsize your home
You’re familiar with the neighborhood
Advantages of making an independent living community home:
You’ll still have your own private residence
You’ll be able to personalize your home as you wish to make it truly yours
Decluttering and downsizing after decades can be a blessing in disguise
Your home is designed for aging-in-place. There’s no need for expensive remodeling
Your maintenance-free home better fits the lifestyle you desire
2. An independent lifestyle
People want to maintain their independence, no matter where they live. Along with the privacy and freedom of their own home, everyone wants to make their own choices and decisions.
Advantages of staying in your current home:
You will continue to live as you do now, making your own choices
You’re free to come and go
You can participate in any activities you choose
Advantages of making an independent living community home:
You’ll continue to live an independent life as you do now
All choices are yours to make, including how you’ll spend your days
You’ll be free to participate in any activities or join in with others at social events
One big difference if an independent living community becomes home? You’ll have many more choices to consider.
3. Access to friends and neighbors
Many older adults have remained in their current home for several years, possibly decades. One advantage can be the familiarity with their neighbors. But people move on and new families may move in. You may find you no longer have as much in common with those living next door.
Advantages of staying in your current home:
You may still have easy access and strong relationships with your neighbors
Your friends may also live nearby
There may still be social events you can attend that are in close proximity
Advantages of making an independent living community home:
It can be more difficult to meet new people as you grow older but a community is filled with residents that share much of your life experiences
The common areas, programs and social gatherings provide a natural way to meet and make new friends
New friendships often become lifelong relationships. Residents watch over each other
4. Access to healthy food when you desire
You know the importance of eating well in order to age well. But as you grow older, and after a lifetime of planning, shopping and cooking meals, it’s tempting to rely more on processed food or snacking. You may even find yourself skipping meals altogether.
Advantages of staying in your current home:
You’re likely familiar with your local grocery store or farmer’s market
You may still enjoy cooking
If you live alone, neighbors may invite you over to share a meal
Advantages of making an independent living community home:
You’ll have the option of someone else doing the work when you’re not in the mood to cook
You’ll still have a full-sized kitchen to cook meals when you want
Any special dietary needs you may have are easily accommodated
You’ll always have someone to share a meal with if you like
5. Access to exercise and engaging activities
A key to aging well is to stay active. We also need to be engaged with others. But as we grow older, we may find that to become more difficult. Staying physically and socially active can become more difficult if you don’t have access to a gym, classes or equipment.
Advantages of staying in your current home:
You may live in a neighborhood that promotes outdoor activities and walking trails
You may have excellent transportation options to get to a gym or recreation center if you no longer drive
Advantages of making an independent living community home:
You’ll walk out your front door to the fitness center or to take a yoga or meditation class
You’ll have easy access to sporting games, clubs, art studios and other group activities in the community
You’ll have a monthly calendar of activities to choose from – all planned for the residents. And if they take place off-site, transportation is provided
The Terraces at River Park Independent Living
If you’re considering the benefits of independent living vs home, we believe the winner to be the community that offers the most advantages. At The Terraces at River Park Independent Living, you’ll find everything you need to live an enriched lifestyle with our activities, social events and healthy dining programs.
You’ll also find a private home that offers open and inviting spaces, walk-in closets and well-equipped kitchens. You’ll have the choice of the floorplan that works best for you. You’re also encouraged to personalize your home so it will be a unique expression of your own style.
We believe you’ll love our well-planned community, created to provide all the possibilities you’re looking for:
Maintenance-free living
Staffed fitness center
New library
Art studio
Games
Bocce Ball Court
Classes, clubs and programs
Meditation space and Yoga studio
Spa/salon
Spiritual, musical and theatrical programs
Please call (843) 273-9001 if you have any questions or would like to schedule a personalized tour today.