For many older adults and their families, moving to an independent living community or renovating an existing home to make it accessible is a pivotal lifestyle choice.
Considering both options and comparing the financials, advantages and disadvantages of each can help make the decision that will best support your highest quality of life.
Independent Living Communities vs. Home Renovations: Making the Right Choice
Consider the following amenities, features, health opportunities and financial costs of remaining at home and moving into an independent living community.
Staying at Home: Elements to Consider
- Renovation Requirements
As we grow older, living in an age-friendly home becomes essential to our physical and emotional health. Your home may require extensive – and expensive – renovations. This might include installing grab bars in bathrooms, ensuring the home is accessible to assistive walking equipment, such as widened doorways, eliminating stairs or installing a stairlift. Kitchen modifications might also be needed, such as lowering countertops and updating appliances to more user-friendly models. - Assess if Other Supportive Services are Convenient
Even if your home can be renovated, are other needed services located in your neighborhood or are easy to access? Consider whether you have a nearby gym or recreation center for fitness, enjoyable activities for social networking or transportation options if you no longer drive. - Is Remaining at Home More Cost Effective?
Not always. Homeowners often assume if they no longer have a mortgage that it’s cheaper than moving to a community but certain expenses still continue: property taxes, insurance, maintenance and upkeep. The fluctuating costs of maintaining a home can be hard to budget for. But you’ll also need to calculate expenses for transportation, activities, fitness classes and social events. - Ongoing Maintenance
Owning a home means continuous maintenance but as we grow older, the tasks of lawn care, cleaning and repairs can become more challenging. If help is required, this will need to be arranged for and included in the budget. - Safety and Emergency Response
Aging in place may be a cause for apprehension if falling or other injuries and illnesses are considered. As mobility decreases, concerns about emergency response times and living alone often rise, creating increased anxiety for both the individual and family members. - Isolation
Staying at home and not participating in activities or events can lead to social isolation, a serious and negative influence on physical, emotional and cognitive health. If no longer driving and friends and family are not nearby, becoming isolated is not uncommon.
Independent Living Communities: Elements to Consider
Independent living communities offer an option that addresses many of the challenges associated with staying at home. Consider these ten advantages:
- Maintenance-Free Living
Independent living communities eliminate the burden of home maintenance. The community staff takes care of everything from landscaping to repairs. - Built for Accessibility
These communities are designed with the needs of older adults in mind. Accessibility features are built into every residence and common area, reducing the risk of falls and injuries. - Community and Social Engagement
Living among peers provides ample opportunities for social interaction and can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Communities organize social events, classes and outings so residents can easily engage. - Safety and Security
Most communities offer secure entrances and are equipped with emergency response systems in each residence. With a staff member typically available, it is reassuring to know you’re not alone if help is needed. - Fitness and Health Programs
Residents have access to fitness centers and a variety of health programs tailored to older adults, helping them maintain their physical and mental health. - Transportation Services
Independent living communities usually provide scheduled transportation services that benefit those who no longer drive. This service can include trips to shopping centers, appointments and other outings. - Flexible Dining Options
Communities typically offer a range of dining options that cater to nutritional needs and eliminate the daily hassle of cooking and cleaning. - Predictable Expenses
Unlike homeownership, where unexpected costs can arise, independent living expenses are predictable in the monthly fee. - Care as Needed
While communities are designed for those who can live independently, the option of bringing in a home or healthcare provider for needed assistance is available. - Freedom to Enjoy Retirement
With less time spent on chores and maintenance, residents are free to enjoy hobbies, social activities and travel – knowing their home is secure and maintained.
The Choice is Yours: Senior Living vs Home Renovations
Choosing between renovating your home and moving to an independent living community depends mainly on your needs, financial situation and personal preferences. For those who place a high value on community, security and freedom from home maintenance responsibilities – an independent living community might be the right choice.
It’s advisable to consider these options, visit several communities and ask for referrals to help you make a well-informed decision. Whether choosing to adapt your existing home or transition to an independent living community, the goal is the same: to live a fulfilling, meaningful and high quality of life.
Independent Living at Presbyterian Village North
We offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience and peace of mind with our non-profit senior living community set on 66 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. Whether you prefer a spacious apartment or a freestanding home, the variety of beautiful residences ensures you’ll find the perfect space to call your own.
With chef-prepared dining and a wide range of amenities, including a fitness center, therapeutic aquatic center and walking paths, every day offers opportunities to stay active and engaged. Residents enjoy a vibrant, welcoming community, open to all faiths, with endless opportunities for connection and personal growth.
From our on-campus pharmacy services to a resident clinic, professional security 24/7and a wireless emergency call system in every residence, your well-being is always a top priority. With exceptional amenities like a performing arts theater, woodworking shop, dog park, putting green and salon services, every detail is designed to enrich your life.
For more information about how Presbyterian Village North can help you or your loved one thrive in retirement, please reach out by calling (800) 391-2779 to request a personal tour or more details today.