Searching for a care plan or new care home can be a daunting task. How do you know which type of care best suits your and your loved one’s situation? Finances can be a large factor as well as type of care. What if your loved one wants care services available should they need them, but does not require constant monitoring?
Independent care (otherwise known as independent living) is a form of care that allows for a greater independence for those in need of basic care services but don’t require around-the-clock monitoring. Independent care can come in the form of living in a senior community with care facilities on the community campus or care services based on your loved one’s needs and preferences. It’s important to consider what exactly your loved one will require when making the transition to a care facility – whether it be an independent care community or even assisted living. There are many benefits to independent living – some may even surprise you.
FREEDOM TO CREATE YOUR OWN SCHEDULE
One major concern that many residents and their loved ones have when moving to a care facility is that of freedom – will they be able to create their own schedule? Will they be able to participate in the activities that interest them? What will the day-to-day look like?
A major benefit to independent care is being able to create your own schedule. If your loved one desires privacy or a vibrant social life, they can have it. Each day is tailored to how your loved one chooses. Many care homes or independent living facilities offer transportation services if your loved one would like to explore their new community.
IT’S CONVENIENT
As we get older, it can get harder to perform basic home maintenance tasks. This is part of why choosing an independent living facility is so convenient. Many independent living facilities provide housekeeping or laundry services if desired, as well as outdoor home maintenance. This can be a large burden off someone’s shoulders, especially if they are worried about continually being able to maintain their homes as they age. Often taken care of in a monthly fee, services like lawn maintenance, snow removal and home repair are provided and creates the convenience of living in a home without having all the responsibilities of being a homeowner.
COUNTLESS SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES AND CREATING CONNECTIONS
Many residents in an independent living facility are roughly around a similar age. Many communities having a minimum age requirement of around 55 years. Often, you’ll find that upon transitioning to an independent living facility, many seniors become more social as the number of classes, activities and events for the community grow. No matter your loved one’s interest, there’s usually something scheduled that would interest them. Keeping your loved ones active and participatory when in a care home or independent living facility has even been shown to help seniors live longer and in better health.
ASSISTANCE – WHEN YOU NEED IT
It’s no secret that people are living longer than they ever used to. Because of this, many more are living with chronic conditions. Independent living is often set up so that the transition to more assistance is available when your loved one requires it.
Access to healthcare services, cleaning and dining services are made available depending on the facility and care home’s care plans. The key factor is that those living in an independent living environment can pick and choose which services they do and do not wish to utilise.
If you or your loved one has any questions about whether an independent living facility or a more hands-on care approach would better for your/their lifestyle, please contact the Hollies directly on 01453 541400 or info@thehollies.co.uk for more information or for any enquiries.