The Benefits of Independent Living Communities for Seniors

According to the Illinois Department on Aging, the senior population in our state has grown by nearly one million since 2000.

If your loved one is among these seniors, you may have noticed their health and wellness decline somewhat. Eventually, it may become clear that they can't enjoy the same quality of life at home that they used to. The best solution to this problem is looking into independent living communities for seniors.

Independent senior housing might seem like an overwhelming transition, but it doesn't have to be. In today's post, we'll look at some retirement communities benefits to help you understand the positive changes they can make in your loved one's life.

Quality of life shouldn't plummet as we get older. Keep reading and see what a great senior community can do for the person you love.

Low-Maintenance Lifestyle

When a senior enters an independent or assisted living community, they get to enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle. No longer will they have to look after a home, entertain guests, or cook complicated meals. All they'll have to focus on is relaxing and looking after themselves.

A lot of people fear the transition into senior care, but if you embrace this new lifestyle, it's very simple and easy. Your loved one's days will be spent with other residents, walking around the community, and enjoying the amazing amenities it has to offer. It greatly increases their quality of life.

Comfortable Environment

One clear benefit of senior living is the level of comfort guests can enjoy. All residents get to choose what kind of accommodation they want to call home, from smaller suites to 1-bedroom apartments, to full townhouses where couples or friends can room together.

The apartments are all equipped with air conditioning, a kitchenette, television with cable, and they're all pet-friendly. When your loved one isn't spending time with fellow residents or enjoying the community's amenities, they can enjoy their privacy in the comfort of their room.

Enjoyable Amenities

Speaking of amenities, each community has unique amenities that help enhance residents' lifestyles. Some have an in-house barber shop and salon, while others have private gardens and pathways.

If your loved one has particular interests, it's a great idea to investigate the types of amenities that different communities put forward. Often, this can be a huge factor in the choice between two communities.

Daily Activities

Another thing to look at is the daily activity calendar, which can say a lot about how a community approaches the health and wellness of its residents. A good community will implement a program of ever-changing activities to promote fitness, socialization, and cognitive exercise.

Whether it's outdoor yoga on Monday mornings or Tuesday night bingo, there should always be something to do in the community. Activities are essential for engaging residents and giving them an exciting day-to-day lifestyle.

At Addington Place of Shiloh, our daily activity calendar includes a wide variety of games, outings to local attractions, and performances. There's never a dull moment for our residents.

Healthier Lifestyle

Many activities in the calendar will be geared towards physical fitness. Seniors need roughly 2.5 hours of moderate aerobic activity per week to strengthen joints and muscles while helping to avoid age-related health problems.

Things like Tai Chi, walking clubs, and yoga are available to residents who want to embrace a healthy lifestyle. Staff members and outside instructors do everything they can to engage residents and help them remain healthy.

Better Social Life

Social isolation is a major problem affecting nearly 40% of people between 50-80. Feelings of isolation are deeply intertwined with anxiety and depression.

For seniors living at home, it's easy to experience this isolation. Even when friends and family visit regularly, if you're alone most of the time, you're bound to feel like you don't belong.

This is never the case in a retirement community. There are constant senior social opportunities, whether it's participating in exercise or lounging quietly around common areas. Your loved one will be surrounded by their peers and given every chance to build meaningful relationships.

Improved Cognitive Health

Cognitive health is just as important as physical health. 251,000 people over 65 are living with Alzheimer's and dementia in Illinois. The brain needs more stimulation as we age, but many seniors fail to get the stimulation they need.

A lot of the programming in independent senior housing communities is there to keep residents' minds engaged. It could be in the form of games, group therapy, or puzzles.

If your loved one is already suffering from cognitive decline, they may opt for memory care. This is a form of assisted living that helps Alzheimer's sufferers manage their symptoms. Staff are highly trained and create tailored care plans to maximize each resident's quality of life.

Fine Dining

Nutrition becomes more and more important as we age. Your loved one needs a balanced diet full of nutrients and vitamins to help them avoid things like diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers.

The problem is that few seniors have the energy to cook elaborate meals that also prioritize their health. Fortunately, a great senior living community will have in-house dining options that satisfy these needs.

With a rotating menu of delicious and nutritious meals, your loved one will never have to worry about cooking again.

Peace of Mind for Everyone

One of the unsung perks of senior living is the effect it has on family and friends. If your loved one's care falls on your shoulders, we don't need to tell you how tricky it can be.

When they transition into senior care and you can see them enjoying their new lifestyle, it takes a weight off. You'll be able to visit them whenever you want without the burden of providing their care.

Finding Independent Living Communities for Seniors

These are just some of the amazing benefits of independent living communities for seniors. To maximize your loved one's living situation, you should match a community's offerings with their care needs.

For seniors in Shiloh, the best option for independent living, assisted living, and memory care is Addington Place of Shiloh. We offer all of the perks mentioned here and more.