Independent Living Cost vs. Value
It’s true that a dream retirement can come with a price, which is why it’s so important to research all available funding sources. But just as key is looking at independent living value—how by choosing the right lifestyle, you can give yourself the priceless benefit of a higher quality of life.
A look at the cost of independent living
The cost of senior living varies greatly based on location, as well as the amenities and services that are included in a community. Independent living is always much less expensive than assisted living, memory care or skilled nursing.
Some independent living communities require an entrance fee, while others only require monthly, all-inclusive rent payments. The monthly rent typically also includes most utilities, dining, maintenance, housekeeping, laundry, transportation and activities. Costs can vary greatly, as some communities have more services and amenities than others. In some cases, certain services have an additional cost.
A look at independent living value
Here’s where the very good news about independent living can be found. Examine what you get in terms of convenience, safety, wellness, entertainment, stimulation, freedom and opportunity—all aspects of independent living value. And all excellent reasons why this lifestyle is the choice of so many forward-thinking seniors who are ready to pursue healthy aging with gusto.
Just ask residents of independent living: why is independent living value is so much more significant than living at home? Here’s just a few examples.
- Great dining experiences.Independent living value means chef-prepared meals designed for proper nutrition as well as deliciousness. Menus are planned with fresh ingredients and prepared by experts who can easily work with dietary requirements while understanding the need to meet the high standards of residents.
If you still lived at home, you’d have to pay for groceries, spend the time planning and cooking meals, clean up the kitchen yourself (or pay a cook and cleaning team to take care of everything for you.) And don’t forget the cost of driving to the store.
- Staying active and connected.Independent living value means having easy access to experts in senior wellness, with classes, equipment and programs available on-site . Special attention is often paid to strength, balance and mobility in order to help residents maintain their independence as long as possible. And all you have to do is walk a few feet from your door to access everything.
Living at home, keeping your fitness level high is entirely up to you. Whether it’s watching a class online or driving to a gym, it’s just harder to stay motivated and interested. Plus, you are paying for a membership or each class you take. And probably not having nearly as much fun as you’d have in a class in senior living community!
- Freedom from home maintenance costs. If you lived at home, you know it never seems to end. You pay much more thansimply mortgage or rent costs. You have other ongoing costs such as food, utilities, repairs, replacement of appliances, heating and cooling systems, floors, windows, the roof and more. You pay property taxes and insurance. The yard man and gardener. If you decide to drive to see a movie or a concert, you’re paying for gas, tickets and more.
Independent living value means all those costs are a thing of the past—instead, you can take advantage of on-site parties, concerts, theatrical productions, movies, holiday celebrations and so much more right there, in your community, steps from your residence.
In independent living, it all comes together for a better quality of life—one that brings you tremendous value, and your family, peace of mind that you have chosen such an exceptional lifestyle.
Senior living, the LSS Senior Living way
At LSS Senior Living, our goal is to offer seniors quality care and comfort in a friendly and warm environment that feels like home. We offer a continuum of services to lend a helping hand when you need them. Find out more about our communities:
Speak to an advisor today. We’re here to help. Learn more about finding the right community for you by downloading our “Choosing the Right Community” guide.