Frequently Asked Questions: Independent Living

Independent-Senior-Living

What is independent living?

Independent living is ideal for seniors seeking a vibrant social environment, a maintenance-free lifestyle, and a variety of amenities. 

 

A few of the amenities at Senior Star:

  • Concierge Services
  • Full Social & Activities Calendar
  • Signature Transportation
  • Salon and Spa
  • Restaurant-Style Dining
  • Fitness Center and Programs

 

What is the housing like?

At Senior Star, we offer a variety of residences with 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments. The living options vary by location. Find your Senior Star location to explore floor plans.

 

What is  assisted living?

 

Assisted living is best suited for the person who needs occasional support with the activities of daily living, such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and dining, but still desires a fully engaging lifestyle.

 

Residents generally have access to all community amenities and services and are free to go about their day.

 

This level of care in senior living offers a personalized care plan with just the right amount of support, along with the perks of a full-service community.

 

Does independent living provide medical care?

Since independent living communities are aimed at older adults who need little or no assistance with activities of daily living, most do not offer medical care or nursing staff.

 

You can, however, hire in-home help separately if it is needed for a short period of time.

 

Learn more about the care available at different levels of senior living

 

How do you choose between independent living and assisted living?

 

The level of care you need will determine whether independent living or assisted living is the best option for you. Assisted living is best suited for the person who needs occasional support with the activities of daily living while independent living is designed for adults who don’t need assistance.

 

Who is a good fit for independent living?

 

Independent living is a great choice if you are presently enjoying an active, healthy lifestyle and require little daily assistance, with no chronic health issues requiring intensive attention. 

 

Independent living lets you trade the worry and cost of home upkeep for a carefree lifestyle offering companionship, entertainment, wellness, lifelong learning and a range of convenient services and exceptional amenities. Onsite care is typically not offered.

 

How do you pay for independent living?

 

Finances are a key consideration when it comes to planning for senior living. Learning what’s available to you can help you find the best fit.

Planning ahead allows you to work with a financial advisor or estate planning attorney if you choose. Turning to a professional can help you explore an array of options about which you may not be familiar, such as reverse mortgages, life insurance conversion, Veterans Benefits and more. 

Read our blog: Three Steps to Budget for Senior Care or download our guide Financial Planning for Retirement Living

Are there options to pay for senior living?

 

As you move closer to making a decision concerning senior living for yourself or for a loved one, you’ll want to consider every possible source of funding.

 

The good news is there are many options, from insurance and savings to Veterans Benefits, to reverse mortgages.

 

Meeting with a financial advisor is one way to be sure you are considering all possibilities.

 

Read more: 7 Options to Pay for Senior Living

 

Is independent living expensive?

There is a lot to consider when it comes to the cost of senior living.


This is why we put together our Financial Planning for Retirement Guide. It contains everything you need to know to make the best financial decision including:

 

  • Understanding overall costs and how to create a budget.
  • Reverse mortgage: how this home equity loan works and what funding issues you can expect it to solve.
  • Do you or your loved one qualify for Veterans Benefits? We list the criteria needed.
  • How to use Long-Term Care Insurance to cover services typically not compensated by Medicare or Medicaid health insurance.
  • Compare the cost of living at home versus moving to a senior living community with our Cost Comparison Worksheet.

 

Download the guide

 

Read more: Understanding the Costs of Senior Living

 

What are the benefits of independent living?

Choosing an exceptional retirement community like Senior Star can help you fully enjoy the freedom of retirement.

  • Quality of life:  You’re giving yourself or your loved one the opportunity for a rich and fulfilling lifestyle, free from daily chores or worries in an environment designed for your comfort and safety. New friendships, new adventures, and new options for enhanced wellness will greet you each day. 
  • Peace of mind. As a resident, you are surrounded by people who know you and care about you and are available 24/7 in an emergency. That can offer priceless reassurance for you and your family. Living in a comfortable environment specially designed for senior safety and well-being not only feels good, but it’s also good for your mental and physical health.
  • A friendly neighborhood. It’s easy to be inspired to live well when you are rubbing shoulders with those who share your goals. Moving to retirement living puts you in a warm and inviting atmosphere with your peers—people who are equally motivated to get the most out of each day. You can enjoy your privacy while knowing someone is always close by.

Read more about the benefits and advantages of senior living.

Do I give up my freedom with independent living?

 Absolutely not! In fact, most seniors choose to move into an independent living community to fully enjoy the freedom of retirement.

 

They are looking for convenience,  amenities, social engagement, delicious dining and opportunities for care when needed.

 

Many older adults are moving to senior living communities at a younger age to take advantage of the services and maintenance-free lifestyle. No need to put off that resort vacation when it can become your new home!

Read more about the common misconceptions of aging.

What amenities does independent living offer?

At Senior Star we offer a variety of Signature Programs and world-class amenities, such as:

  • Concierge Services
  • Signature Transportation
  • Salon and Spa
  • Restaurant-Style Dining
  • Fitness Center and Programs

 

When should I start planning for independent living?


The answer is simple: It’s never too early to begin planning for senior living.


Planning ahead makes it possible to:

  • Discover more options in your area
  • Take time to tour communities that appeal to you
  • Prepare for waiting lists
  • Research financing options
  • Avoid stress and overwhelm 

Read more: When to Start Looking For Senior Living Options