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As their retirement day approaches, many older adults contemplate the lifestyle they envision for their golden years.
The lifestyle found in independent living communities is an excellent option for retirees seeking an active yet supportive lifestyle in a community of their peers.
However, determining if independent living is the best choice for your retirement is a complex decision that can be confusing and overwhelming for seniors.
Finding the right independent living community requires careful consideration of various factors.
In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive checklist for independent living to help you decide if this senior living lifestyle is a good fit for the retirement of your dreams.
Financial considerations
According to AssistedLiving.org, depending on your location, living in an independent living community can cost from $1,500 to $4,000 per month.
A thorough look at your current and future finances is the first step to deciding if independent living is right for you.
Meet with your financial advisor to evaluate your savings, investments, and monthly retirement income to ensure you can comfortably afford independent living.
Research the independent living expenses including the monthly fee, entry fees, and costs of additional services to ensure you completely understand the costs.
Download our Guide to Funding Senior Care and Housing.
Location
When evaluating possible independent living community locations, consider the climate, proximity to family and friends, access to healthcare, and what shopping, local areas of interest, and entertainment options are close by.
Services and amenities
Retirement should be about relaxing and enjoying life without the pressures of daily tasks and mundane responsibilities. A luxury independent living community like those offered by Allegro Senior Living provides residents with the some or all of the following services and amenities:
- Modern and comfortable luxury apartments
- Daily housekeeping
- Personal laundry
- Transportation
- Apartment maintenance and repairs
- Beauty salon and spa
- Pool and hot tub
- Movie theater
- Bar and bistro…and more
Health and wellness
Consider your current health and potential future needs. Independent living is designed for active seniors, but the community should make it easy for residents to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.
Communities prioritizing health should provide the following:
- Fitness centers
- Group exercise classes
- On-site rehab facility
- Yoga classes
- Healthy food options
- Ramps, elevators, guardrails, and handicapped-accessible spaces
- Spirituality sessions
Social and recreational opportunities
Determine the level of social interaction you need to enjoy a fun and fulfilling retirement. Independent living communities provide various recreational activities, including:
- Off-site excursions and trips
- Art classes
- Cooking classes
- Wine tastings
- Continuing education classes
- Happy hours
- Volunteering opportunities
- Entertainment
Planning for your future needs and wants
Research the availability of long-term care services within and near the independent living community. Having a plan for potential health needs ensures a seamless transition if your needs change over time.
Inquire about rehabilitation services, assisted living, and assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and grooming. Knowing the independent living community you choose can accommodate your future needs will give you the peace of mind needed to enjoy retirement fully.
Wrap-up
Deciding if independent living is a good fit for retirement involves carefully examining various aspects of your life. Finding an independent living community that meets your healthcare, social, financial, and future needs is the first step in ensuring a fulfilling and well-deserved retirement. By thoroughly considering each factor, you can make an informed decision that paves the way for the retirement of your dreams.
Contact an Allegro advisor to schedule an in-person or virtual tour at any of their independent living communities. Through careful observations and target questions, potential independent living residents can ensure the community aligns with their preferences, needs, and expectations, fostering a fulfilling experience.
For more information on covering the cost of senior living, download our Guide to Funding Senior Care and Housing, or contact Allegro’s helpful advisors. 
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