What’s the Best Age to Move into Independent Living?
It’s tempting to put off moving to a retirement community. After all, are you even the right age for senior living? It turns out, you might be! Active seniors can benefit from the vibrancy and security independent living offers. If you’re wondering about the best age to move into independent living, here are some of the reasons the right age might be sooner rather than later:
There’s Plenty to Do
Meaningful activity and a sense of purpose are associated with lowered risk of cognitive decline and health problems like stroke and heart disease. Independent living communities make it easy to engage in the pastimes and pursuits that you enjoy. With fitness classes, table games, social events and cultural outings in the surrounding community, you can be as active and engaged as you like.
Someone Else Does the Chores
It’s not that you can’t cook your meals, clean your house and keep your lawn tidy — but do you want to? In a senior living community, housekeeping and a meal plan are typically provided and a grounds keeping crew maintains the surrounding green space. That gives you more time to pursue your interests, meet with friends and family, or kick back and relax on your private balcony or patio.
You’ll Make New Friends
Social isolation, which can be a concern for seniors as they age, may lead to an increased risk of stroke, dementia and heart disease. Independent living offers a vibrant community so there’s always a friend with whom you can play chess, eat dinner or settle down to watch a movie. And in many senior living communities, you can make close connections with staff, as well, creating a comforting sense of belonging and support.
You Can Follow Your Curiosity
“Following that scavenger hunt of curiosity can lead you to amazing, unexpected places,” writes author Elizabeth Gilbert in “Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear.” In a senior living community, there are many opportunities to explore, experience new things and be a lifelong learner. Classes, clubs and workshops may offer everything from book club and bridge club to Bible study and a writing group, giving you a chance to discover new passions or delve more deeply into longtime favorites. Nothing is mandatory, so you can participate as much or as little as you choose.
Having a Plan Offers Peace of Mind
No one wants to think about potential health setbacks. But knowing that you have a plan in place should health problems occur can give you a sense of security. Some independent living communities offer a continuum of care, so if you ever need a helping hand with regular daily tasks like dressing, or if you need extra support while recovering from surgery or an illness, the appropriate care is available within the same community.
Independent Living at Parkwood
Parkwood Retirement in Bedford, Texas, is independent living at its best. Here, you can enjoy the perfect blend of community and freedom. Cafeteria-style dining and social activities give you the opportunity to socialize with new friends, while your full-size kitchen and private patio or balcony give you ample space for yourself. In addition to a comfortable lifestyle, you’ll enjoy knowing you have a plan in case of health setbacks. We’re on the same campus as Parkwood Healthcare, so higher levels of care, including assisted living, skilled nursing, rehabilitative care and memory care, are just next door if you ever need them. If you’re thinking you might be getting close to the best age to move into independent living, contact us to learn more about the life-enriching independent living experience at Parkwood.
