Independent living communities are designed for those who desire to simplify their lifestyle and want to enjoy a socially active retirement. These communities offer an all-inclusive living experience with additional support available, should the need arise. Learn about the extensive benefits these communities provide as we answer the question, “What is Independent Living?
Maintenance Free Living
The average person spends nearly six hours per week cleaning their home. And that does not even account for other home-maintenance tasks, like maintaining the lawn or shoveling snow. With less time spent maintaining a home, residents have the opportunity to live each day of their retirement to the fullest. Some spend their time pursuing new hobbies or volunteering for local organizations, while others simply close the door to their home and travel the world.
Independent Living is maintenance-free living! While lawn care, snow removal, and home repairs are taken care of by the community, independent living often offers cleaning services for an additional cost as well.
All-Inclusive Living
We all enjoy a relaxing vacation at an all-inclusive resort! And for seniors, an independent living community can feel the same. Most independent living communities operate under a life lease. Under this legally binding contract, a resident pays a one-time entrance fee, as well as a monthly rental fee. Life leases are common in senior living and are financially beneficial to the resident, because the payment of the entrance fee allows for a lower monthly fee. The monthly fee covers everything from home and community maintenance to exclusive use of all common areas and amenities. To learn more about financially preparing for senior living, download our guide Navigating the Financial Aspects of Senior Living.
Residences
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Independent living homes are designed with older adults in mind and offer features like zero-entry, wider doorways, emergency pull-cords, and more! While these safety measures are helpful and allow residents to preserve their independence, sometimes when first moving in, there is concern that the safety features will take away from the beauty or functionality of the home. Rest assured that independent living options throughout Sunset Senior Communities have modern finishes and can be decorated to reflect your uniqueness, just like the home you’re currently living in.
Home options for independent living can range from quaint one-bedroom or studio apartments to condo-like cottages with ample space to entertain and everything in between.
Onsite Amenities
While residents live independently, there is still plenty of opportunity for social engagement. Independent living communities are perfect for those wanting to live an active retirement and the campus amenities offered support even the most active lifestyles. Amenities in these communities often include a fitness center & pool, multiple dining venues, entertainment spaces like an auditorium or cinema room, woodworking shops, art studios, and more!
Programming
An abundance of programming and activities are common on community social calendars. In fact, most independent living communities have a life enrichment department that is dedicated to planning a wide variety of activities for residents. Some of these activities may include:
- Fitness classes specifically adapted for seniors. This could include anything from a low-impact cardio or water aerobics class to balance and strength training.
- Trips to local restaurants, sporting events, plays & musicals, shops, and local attractions. We encourage our residents to explore all that West Michigan has to offer and what better way to do it than with all of your friends!
- Social opportunities including themed dinners, concerts, a wide variety of clubs, & more!
- Learning opportunities and intergenerational learning with local schools & universities.
Unique Dining Venues
Restaurant-style dining with chef-crafted menus. A quality dining experience is an amenity many people look for when considering independent living. Some communities offer a dining package or meals that are built into the monthly rental cost, while others offer an a-la-carte approach or some sort of hybrid between the two. And while your independent living home will likely have a full kitchen or kitchenette, the convenience of having chef-prepared meals simply cannot be beat. Plus, the added benefit of socializing with friends!
Something for Everyone at Sunset
Independent living as unique as you are! At Sunset, two of our communities offer independent living: Manor & Villages and Waterford Place. If you are interested in independent living and would like more information, please fill out our website contact form or give us a call at 616.457.2770.