A lot goes into home ownership: insurance, property taxes, repairs, and utilities, to name a few. So, it's no wonder owning and maintaining an average house in the U.S. now costs homeowners around $18,000 yearly.
Let's not forget that owning a home requires cleaning and housekeeping. There's also laundry to think about. On top of all these, older adults must set aside time to attend their doctor's appointments.
Fortunately, there's a way for seniors to enjoy privacy, one of the primary benefits of homeownership, without the stress. That's by transitioning to independent living in Chattanooga, TN.
This guide explores independent living, its benefits for seniors, and how to choose retirement homes. Read on to learn how it can help you with successful retirement planning.
Independent living is a community specifically for older adults. In these communities, residents are usually 55 and older.
Depending on your needs and preferences, you may choose between independent and supervised independent living in Chattanooga.
ADLs are essential skills a person needs to care for themselves independently. There are two types: basic ADLs and instrumental ADLs.
Basic ADLs include ambulating (moving about), feeding, dressing, personal hygiene, toileting, and continence. Instrumental ADLs require more complex thinking skills, like meal preparation and medication management.
Independent living is for older adults who don't need any assistance with (ADLs). While they can do things without help, they prefer a more compact, easy-to-navigate home. They also want amenities that make their lives more convenient and fulfilling.
Supervised independent living is similar, but it offers seniors the added benefit of support for ADLs in case they need it. That gives them peace of mind, knowing they can rely on trained care professionals whenever they need help. As such, it can be ideal for older adults who may soon need help with daily tasks.
From well-appointed homes to great amenities in a supportive environment, independent living provides all these benefits (and more!). The best ones also give residents more opportunities for recreation, socialization, and well-being.
Here's a closer look at these top perks of moving to an independent senior living community in Chattanooga, TN.
The best independent living community offers studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom apartments. In these private, well-appointed homes, you'll find many modern touches and features, such as:
Some apartments also have a kitchenette, complete with a refrigerator/freezer. So, if you love cooking and wish to continue doing so throughout your golden years, look for a community with these kitchen features.
The best independent living communities take the stress and hassle out of home maintenance. Their expert staff handles it on behalf of their residents. They even do housekeeping and laundry, providing these services weekly!
Sometimes, retirement costs seniors their mental health by causing boredom, isolation, and loneliness. Since they no longer work, they have more time on their hands than they can spend productively. They may also have less contact with others, making them feel alone.
All of that can lead to poor mental health and even cognitive problems.
An independent living community's senior wellness amenities can help lower those risks. It has a lounge and activity room for socialization and recreational activities like mahjong. It also offers fitness and educational courses to stimulate residents physically and mentally.
Scheduled outings are also part of the best community's daily activity calendar. For example, they go on outings to local landmarks and restaurants.
Dining options are available to independent living residents, too.
Once you move into the community, transportation will also be more accessible. You can request help from the staff to set you up with a ride. For instance, if you have a doctor's appointment soon, you can simply schedule the service, and they'll arrange it for you.
Research shows that pets can be beneficial for seniors. Studies have found that the bond they share with humans can:
The good news is that the best independent living communities are pet-friendly. You can bring your pet here and live with them.
Some independent living communities also cater to seniors requiring assisted living in Chattanooga. This senior living option is for older people who need more help with ADLs. A trustworthy personal care staff looks after them and attends to their needs.
The best communities also provide memory care in Chattanooga, TN. Here, knowledgeable, compassionate caregivers help residents with memory issues like dementia or Alzheimer's. They assist residents with their daily care needs and help them stay mentally and physically stimulated.
The first step is to assess your needs and preferences. Are you fully independent, or do you sometimes need help with ADLs? If it's the latter, your best option may be to choose a community offering supervised independent living.
You should also consider your future ADL-related needs. Do you see yourself needing more help with them?
If so, it might be best to pick a community offering assisted living. That way, you can retain your independence now. Then, if your care needs change, you won't have to worry too much about moving elsewhere.
Lastly, remember that not all communities provide the perks discussed above. So, be sure that your soon-to-be community and home feature them.
Independent living in Chattanooga, TN, makes retirement more convenient, engaging, and fulfilling. At the same time, seniors here can retain their independence.
At Signal Mountain Senior Living, we offer our residents a home maintenance-free lifestyle. We help them spend their time on more fun and productive social, recreational, and physical activities. They also enjoy our other on-site amenities and services like dining and transportation.
So, if you're ready to explore the best senior community in Chattanooga, reach out to us today. We look forward to giving you a tour of our beautiful, pet-friendly community surrounded by acres of majestic natural beauty.