Selecting the Right Senior Living Community in Independence IA
Across the US, there are about 818,800 people living in assisted living communities.
As we get older, going about our daily lives becomes more difficult. A senior living community in Independence, IA, can be a great solution for those who want some help with the challenges that come with aging.
With that in mind, there are various senior living options available, so deciding on one may not be easy. For this, you need to consider a range of factors and assess the different options you have.
If you or someone close to you is interested in assisted living in Independence, IA, then this guide can help. We'll go over some of the key factors you should think about when making your choice. Keep reading for more.
Look for the Right Location
One of the first things to think about when looking for a retirement community is the location, just as you would when looking for any other place to live. Start by determining your location preferences, as this will allow you to narrow things down.
Think about the neighborhoods you're interested in, as well as the proximity to friends and family. You should also think about anything you might be interested in nearby, such as shops or parks. On top of this, you might want to consider things like safety rankings, accessibility, and walkability.
Evaluate the Benefits of Community Life
Community living is all about achieving a better quality of life. Connection is a key part of this, and it has been shown to be incredibly important for our health as we age.
According to the CDC, loneliness and social isolation can lead to major health concerns, especially among the elderly. This can include things like heart disease, strokes, cognitive decline, anxiety and depression, and even premature death.
Quality assisted living puts a focus on connecting people. Those residing in these communities can form relationships with their neighbors and peers, reducing the risks of becoming lonely.
Every senior living community is unique, so some will be better for this than others. It can be worth visiting some options in person to get a better feel for the atmosphere. It's a good idea to schedule time for a meal or even an event at communities you're interested in to see what things are like.
You'll have the chance to see how residents interact with one another, helping you find somewhere that's a suitable fit. You can also take a look at community calendars to see what kinds of events they organize for the residents.
Find a Suitable Price Point
This may not be the most fun thing to look at, but understanding the price options available is crucial. Some of the communities you're looking at might not be in your budget, in which case you can simply eliminate them.
It's important to note that most communities have different pricing options. For each community you're looking at, you should investigate exactly what their plans include. Look at things like:
- Housekeeping services
- Meal plans
- Maintenance
- Utilities
- Activities
Break these costs down so you can compare different communities and pricing plans. This will help you find something that meets your needs and is financially viable.
Consider the Amenities and Services
Senior housing isn't only about the housing. Assisted communities offer a range of amenities and services, and these can have an impact on your choice.
Make sure you look into what every community offers, so you know what you'll be able to enjoy while you're there. This can include things like better dining programs, social activities, fitness classes, and more. These can all have a huge impact on your life within a community.
Bear in mind that you don't have to only look for things you've had experience with, but also new experiences. You should also consider not only amenities and services that you're interested in now, but also things that you think might appeal to you in the future.
At Prairie Hills Independence, some of the noteworthy features include:
- In-room dining
- Scheduled transportation services
- Weekly housekeeping
- Senior fitness programming
- More
We offer these to help provide a more relaxing and enjoyable life for all of our residents.
Accommodate for Future Planning
As we've said briefly, you shouldn't just be thinking about the present. Consider how an assisted living community will suit you in the future. For example, if you think you might need additional support or assistance further down the line, you don't want to have to go through the task of finding another community to live in.
Prairie Hills Independence works to provide quality assistance to residents from their first day with us until their last. We have different senior living options to accommodate the specific needs of our residents. If your needs change down the line, we can adjust things to help ensure you're living the most comfortable life you can be.
Accommodation Options
While there are many things to consider, your actual accommodation is among the most important. It's where you'll spend a lot of your time, so you want to make sure you're comfortable and happy there.
Most assisted living communities will have several options, allowing you to choose something that you feel suits you best. At Prairie Hills Independence, we have different choices available ranging from 340 square feet, single-bed units up to 717 square feet, two-bedroom units. You can take a look at the different options when taking a tour to get a better feel for them.
The Right Senior Living Community in Independence, IA
If you're approaching the point in your life when you're looking for a senior living community in Independence, IA, then you should start doing your research. Consider your own wants and needs so you can make a reasonable comparison between the different options available.
Prairie Hills Independence is dedicated to providing the best quality of life to our residents in their later years. We can provide different levels of care to meet the exact needs of each of our residents, ensuring they get the most out of our community. Contact us today to schedule a tour.