Independent living is housing designed for older adults who can look after themselves but want an easier, more sociable way of life. Residents live in private apartments, cottages or villas within a community that takes care of maintenance, offers dining and activities, and brings neighbours of a similar age together. No personal or medical care is provided as standard, which is what sets it apart from assisted living.
Who it suits
Active retirees who are tired of looking after a house and garden, who want company, or who are planning ahead so that help is nearby if their needs change. Most communities set a minimum age, often 55 or 62. Couples can move together and stay together.
What is included
It varies widely. At one end are active-adult neighbourhoods of owned homes with a clubhouse and shared amenities; at the other are rental retirement communities with restaurant-style dining, housekeeping, transport, fitness classes, outings and 24-hour staff on site. Some sit within a larger campus, sometimes called a continuing care or life plan community, where assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing are available on the same site if ever needed.
Independent living and assisted living
The difference is care. Independent living residents manage their own health, medications and personal care, though many communities will arrange home care from an outside agency for a fee. If daily help with bathing, dressing or medications becomes necessary, assisted living is usually the next step.
Costs
Independent living is paid for privately: a monthly rent or fee, or a purchase price plus a monthly service charge. Because no care is included, it is not covered by Medicare, Medicaid or most long-term care insurance. Ask exactly what the monthly fee includes, how often it has increased in recent years, and what happens if a resident's needs change.
Choosing a community
Visit at a mealtime, try the food, look at the activity calendar and talk to residents about what daily life is really like. Read the contract carefully, especially the terms for leaving or moving to a higher level of care. Browse the independent living communities on this site by state and city.