Independent living is usually an apartment building with services for seniors. The idea is to allow older adults to maintain their independence. Some meals, weekly housekeeping and utilities usually are included in the rent. In addition, most independent living communities offer a full array of daily social, recreational and educational events designed to enrich life both in and out of the building for no additional charge.
Amenities and services are usually very important when searching for independent senior living. Seniors are looking for a worry free lifestyle and that is what independent living is designed to achieve.
There usually are some safeguards built into the apartments such as pull cords (to reach a nurse or attendant call station) and accessible bathrooms. If one moves into an independent living apartment and more care is needed, usually the property has a partnership with a company that can provide care a la carte such as help with escorts and medication reminders.
Each community has different age range requirements but as a general rule, most of them are minimum age of 62-65 and up.
Private-duty caregivers also can be hired to come and go as needed. Most independent living communities have parking for resident cars. Pricing is determined by location as well as the size of the apartment. You can usually find a good selection of studios and one and two bedroom apartments. Currently in the Chicagoland area the monthly rental fees can range from $1000 – $5000.
Independent living is most often paid for via private funds. Some senior housing communities are subsidized and your local area agency on aging typically maintains a list of subsidized housing and entrance requirements.
Independent living is not licensed by any federal or state agencies.