In a 55+ community, older adults can continue to enjoy privacy and autonomy while surrounded by a vibrant group of peers. Additionally, these communities offer a more convenient lifestyle that frees up time for older adults to focus on the pursuits that truly matter to them.
Are you considering this option for yourself? Learn about seven simple joys of independent living in a 55+ community.
1. Social Connections and Friendships
Loneliness and social isolation are significant problems for many older adults. As of 2023, just over one-third of adults aged 50-80 feel isolated from others, according to the National Poll on Healthy Aging. Senior living communities provide ample opportunities for regular social interaction, allowing community members to build lasting relationships with peers. In addition to organized events, community members come together informally in large gathering spaces to enjoy company without the responsibilities of hosting.
2. Access to Amenities
A major perk of living in a 55+ community is access to on-site amenities such as fitness centers, pools, and dining halls. There are many types of senior living communities, but generally, those labeled "independent living" offer the widest range of amenities and services. Depending on the community, you may be able to access all sorts of amenities just steps away. For example, all WesleyLife communities include general stores that offer necessities, while others include on-site salons, banking, and more.
3. An Active Lifestyle
Health experts agree staying active as you age can lower your risk of many diseases, improve your strength and balance, minimize aches and pains, and enhance your mental health. Easy access to amenities like gyms and walking paths and programming like fitness classes and organized sports makes staying active more convenient and enjoyable. Plus, if you wish, you can find a workout buddy to help keep you accountable and make exercise more of a social experience.
4. Maintenance-Free Living
Do you enjoy living in your own home but find yard work, upkeep, and repairs challenging? Community living removes that obligation from your shoulders, allowing you to enjoy your own space with no maintenance required on your part! Dedicated team members will maintain your lawn and the entirety of the campus so you can enjoy a beautifully kept space you’re proud to call home. Maintenance-free living is not only convenient but also gives you time to focus on more meaningful pursuits.
5. Freedom to Travel
Many people dream of traveling but feel tied down by responsibilities at home. Simplified living in a 55+ community makes it easier to travel and enjoy the extended vacations of your dreams. Traveling isn’t just fun; it’s known to benefit older adults’ well-being and even increase their life expectancy. Whether you’re visiting with family and friends out of town or enjoying exciting new experiences around the globe, you can enjoy your time away with the knowledge that your immaculately maintained home is waiting for you.
6. A Beautiful Environment
One of life’s simple joys is the beauty of nature. Many 55+ communities are situated on attractive campuses with well-kept gardens, walking paths, and scenic surroundings. Living in an aesthetically pleasing community can bring joy and serenity to every day and encourage you to spend more time outdoors. It also instills a sense of pride as you welcome visitors and show them your home. Plus, buildings on a senior living campus are typically designed with a consistent architectural style to add to the harmonious design and beauty of the campus.
7. Personalized Living Spaces
The unique value of independent living is that you benefit from the perks of community living while enjoying your personal space. You can decorate your apartment, townhouse, or bungalow to reflect your style and make it your own. Plus, rather than trying to modify your home to help you age in place, you can settle into a home that already offers comfortable designs to enhance daily living.
Ready to Pursue Your Joy?
From the convenience of campus amenities and maintenance-free living to the enrichment of peer relationships and social programming, independent living in a 55+ community can offer a lifestyle you’ve only dreamed of until now.
WesleyLife’s senior living communities are built around the belief that you can thrive at any age as you pursue your ideal lifestyle. Learn more about the WesleyLife philosophy and start pursuing your joy today!
