Have you made the decision to move into an independent living community? For many people that option is the next logical choice if they’re interested in pursuing their anticipated lifestyle of:
- Maintenance-free living
- Beautiful private residences and floorplan choices
- A wide selection of on-site activities
- Abundant opportunities to meet and make new friends
- Fitness center and equipment to maintain physical health
- Classes, lectures and entertainment to stimulate cognitive health
- Selection of social events that are fulfilling and fun
- Delicious and nutritious dining options
- Several amenities to choose from
- Scheduled transportation for shopping, medical appointments and entertainment
But once you’ve made that determination, how do you go about choosing the particular community that’s right for you? All independent living communities are not created equal so you’ll want to do your research and include personal tours before you make your decision.
If you live in a city, you may have several communities to choose from. What features might help you decide where to make your next home?
Comparing independent living communities
After opting for the independent living lifestyle, you may want to review these 10 tips to help when comparing more than one community:
Tip #1: Define your dream lifestyle
It’s always easier to find what you’re looking for once you know what it is. Take some time to think about what you want from a community that can support the lifestyle that you desire and deserve. Your choice should reflect what is important to you.
Tip #2: Decide which features are a priority
List your preferences and rank them by importance to help your search. You may not find everything you want in one community. For example, are you an avid swimmer? If so and this is part of your exercise routine, make sure your community has a pool.
Tip #3: Consider the importance of location
When comparing independent living communities, location may land further down the list for some people but others might want to be close to their children, shopping, entertainment or in or near their old neighborhood. If this is an important factor, begin your search there.
Tip #4: Choose the type of community you prefer
Are you looking for a life plan community that offers several different levels of services all in the same location? Some people prefer this type of arrangement which is most beneficial if you think your future health needs may change but you want to stay in the same place.
Tip #5: What type of residences are offered?
This will be your home so you’ll want to make sure the community offers the type and style of residence that you prefer. Look for size, floorplan layouts, natural light, views and the features that will help you age-in-place. Ask if you’ll be able to personalize your home to make it your own.
Tip #6: Consider the amenities
What amenities does the community offer? Is there a swimming pool, golf course or pickleball court in the community? Have arrangements been made with other businesses in the area for the residents’ use? Is there a fitness center and equipment so you can maintain your physical health?
Tip #7: Review the activities available
Ask about the available activities that are planned by the community. Many will have a monthly calendar of events and options. Are there opportunities that include your interests? Are there book clubs, discussion groups, Bridge games or other stimulating choices to keep your mind active, as well as your body? Are there plenty of possibilities to have fun?
Tip #8: How easy will it be to make friends?
One of the best benefits of an independent living community is the ease in meeting and making new friends. Ask what social events are typically planned by the community. What is available in the common areas that makes it natural to meet new people? Do they plan opportunities so the new residents can meet their neighbors?
Tip #9: What type of dining programs are available?
Independent living communities provide full-sized kitchens in the residences so you always have the option of doing your own cooking. But what about the times when you’re ready for a break? Check out what type of dining is available and make sure you take a taste of the menu options.
Tip #10: Is the neighborhood where you want to live?
Are you ready to leave your old neighborhood and try something new? Maybe you’d like to be closer to shopping or the dog park. Are you looking for a more walkable community? Does the neighborhood feel safe and offer the type of stores and services you’re interested in?
Ingleside at King Farm Independent Living
At Ingleside at King Farm Independent Living, we understand the many choices you have available. We’ve designed our community with you in mind, such as how to create the freedom to achieve the lifestyle that you have always imagined.
We offer our future residents the services and amenities they need to support them in aging well. With our activities, social events, fitness center, delicious dining options and other first-class amenities, we believe you’ll discover everything you need for an enriched and meaningful life.
You’ll find your private home offers open and inviting spaces, walk-in closets and well-equipped kitchens. You’ll have the choice of the floorplan that works best for you. You’re also encouraged to personalize your home so it will be a unique expression of your own style.
Our well-planned community has been created to provide all the possibilities you’re looking for:
- Maintenance-free living
- Staffed fitness center
- Indoor heated pool and spa
- Cultural Arts Center
- New library
- Art studio
- Game room
- Classes, clubs and programs
- Meditation space and Yoga studio
- Spa/salon with massage room
- Spiritual, musical and theatrical programs
Along with scheduled transportation to medical appointments, shopping, concerts and other events, you’ll have easy access to the shuttle system that loops to the Metro as well as walking paths that lead to The King Farm Village Center, just a few blocks away.
Please visit our website or call (240) 414-8557 if you have any questions or would like to schedule a personalized tour today.