What is Independent Living?

Independent living is a lifestyle option for older adults who want to maintain their freedom while enjoying added convenience, comfort, and community. It provides a maintenance-free environment with access to services, amenities, and social opportunities—all designed to simplify daily life and support a vibrant, active lifestyle.

From wellness programs to group outings, independent living encourages personal growth, meaningful connections, and more time to focus on what you love.

Who is Independent Living For? 

Independent living is for seniors who can live independently but want access to support services when additional on-site care is needed. It’s ideal for those seeking a fulfilling lifestyle in a vibrant community with convenient amenities, activities, and social connections.

Lifestyle Options in Independent Living

There are many options to consider when it comes to senior living. Based on your budget, location, health needs, and the type of lifestyle you’re looking for, one housing option may suit you better than others.

Independent living combines the benefits of a vibrant, active lifestyle with the convenience of maintenance-free living. Erickson Senior Living communities offer a full continuum of senior housing options—including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing—so you can remain in the community even if your needs change over time. Residents enjoy the comfort of predictable monthly expenses that cover nearly all regular living costs, from utilities and maintenance to 24/7 security and amenities. 

With resort-style features like fitness centers, pools, restaurant-style dining venues, and social activities right outside your door, Erickson Senior Living managed communities are designed for those seeking both relaxation and engagement in their retirement.

“It was getting to be too much for me, taking care of a big, seven-room cottage all alone. When I visited Brooksby, I walked around and saw that I could take an elevator to get wherever I wanted to go. And all the apartment homes were one level!” says Patricia K., who lives in Brooksby Village, an Erickson Senior Living managed community in Peabody, Massachusetts.

Independent living also provides multiple opportunities for social interactions, convenient on-site dining with a variety of delicious options, and fitness and well-being programs to keep residents active and thriving. 

Let’s take a closer look at what independent living entails and the different types of communities available to suit varying lifestyles and preferences.

Types of Independent Living Communities

For older adults who no longer want the responsibilities and expenses of homeownership, independent senior living communities may be the right choice. Residences range from one-bedroom to large three-bedroom floor plans, and delicious dining options can be enjoyed in multiple restaurants. Independent living communities typically have well-being classes, fitness centers, clubs, special events, and other activities.

Independent living services can be found in various forms, including:

• Active adult communities: These are also known as 55-plus communities and senior apartments. These facilities often provide various amenities, like pickleball courts, fitness centers, pools, and clubhouses. Residents are usually responsible for the upkeep of their residences or apartments as well as meals.
• Traditional senior living communities: These communities are designed for older adults who want a maintenance-free lifestyle with access to services like housekeeping, transportation, and meals, but do not always offer higher levels of care on site. They typically include apartment-style residences and a calendar of social, recreational, and wellness activities.
• Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs): These continuing care facilities provide well-appointed, maintenance-free residences, health and well-being services, nutritious and delicious meals prepared by professional chefs, and a variety of socialization opportunities all in one place.  Most also provide a continuum of care on campus, so should the health care needs of a resident change, they can easily access additional support such as skilled nursing, assisted living, and memory care services. 
   

Key Features and Amenities of Independent Living Communities

Independent living communities come in different forms—including active adult communities, traditional senior living residences, and Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs). While offerings vary across these models, many provide supportive services and enriching amenities that allow older adults to maintain their independence and enjoy a vibrant lifestyle. Common features may include:

• Worry-free living: Residents enjoy services such as housekeeping, landscaping, and maintenance, allowing them more time for activities.
• Social community: Opportunities to connect with peers through organized events, clubs, and communal spaces, fostering a vibrant social life.
• Access to amenities: Enjoy a variety of amenities, including fitness centers, swimming pools, on-site restaurants, and recreational facilities.
• Dining options: Flexible meal plans based on preferences and budgets, with a range of dining choices available.
• Engaging programming: A wide range of activities such as fitness classes, cultural events, educational seminars, organized trips, and volunteer opportunities.
• Active lifestyle: With diverse activities to keep both body and mind active, including fitness, hobbies, and social events.

These thoughtfully curated features come together to create a supportive, enriching environment where residents can thrive and truly enjoy their independence.
 

Benefits of Independent Living

Residents of independent living communities can wave goodbye to their snow shovels, hedge clippers, and lawn mowers, as those and most other chores are handled by the community. Erickson Senior Living managed communities also take care of minor home repairs, creating more free time for you to enjoy the on-site amenities, and they are designed with climate-controlled walkways so that residents can enjoy all activities and dining, even in inclement weather.

Dedicated resident services staff members organize a host of clubs and activities, providing great opportunities to socialize—an important component of healthy aging.

“We are active people, so we wanted to be somewhere we could lead active lifestyles. What impressed me the most was the level of activity in the clubhouses. People were completing puzzles, playing cards and board games, and doing crafts. There was always something going on,” says Debby V., a resident of Charlestown, an Erickson Senior Living community in Catonsville, Maryland.

Debby’s neighbor, Elaine E., adds that having all of her activities in one place has made her life more enjoyable.

“We had no idea that this kind of place even existed! Instead of hopping in the car, meeting friends for dinner or attending a concert is just a short walk down the hall. I’m so glad we moved to Charlestown. There is always something to do here, from morning to night,” she says.

Considerations When Choosing an Independent Living Community

There are many factors that will play a role when choosing the right independent living community for you. Here are a few:

• Goals: What are your main motivations for moving? On-site health care? More socialization? Maintenance-free living?
• Timing: Do you need to move ASAP, or are you just beginning the planning stage?
• Location: Do you want to stay in the same area close to friends, move closer to children, or relocate to the mountains or somewhere warm?

It’s also vital that you visit the independent living facilities you’re considering multiple times. Here are some questions to ask when visiting:

• What types of programming are offered, and can residents provide feedback?
• What types of support services are offered—housekeeping, security, transportation, etc.?
• Is there a nutritionist or dietitian on staff?
• What’s included in the monthly service package?
• Do staff members undergo screenings and background checks prior to employment?
• Are resident clubs, groups, and social activities offered?
• Are classes, lectures, and other learning opportunities offered regularly?
• Any volunteer opportunities inside and outside the community?
• Is there a plan in place for natural disasters and other crises?
• What is the financial health of the community for future capital improvements?
• Is there a waiting list or priority list?
• Can I stay overnight to try out the community?

Financial Aspects of Independent Living

While financial specifics may vary from community to community, generally independent living residents at Erickson Senior Living managed communities pay a one-time entrance fee—where a percentage is also refundable, should you leave the community or decide to pass it on to heirs—and a monthly service package that covers almost all regular living expenses, including:

• Utilities
• Maintenance
• Property taxes
• Cable TV
• 24/7 security
• Activities
• Select meals

The predictable monthly service package makes it easy to manage your retirement budget and enjoy a vibrant and worry-free lifestyle.

Norma H., who lives in Highland Springs, an Erickson Senior Living managed community in North Dallas, Texas, loves how she no longer has to worry about regular upkeep of her home, as all maintenance is taken care of for her.

“Now, when a maintenance issue arises, I just pick up the phone and call General Services. The staff here are really friendly, and they go out of their way to do whatever they can for us. They do all the little extra things with a smile,” she says.

In addition, Erickson Senior Living managed communities operate on a fee-for-service model where independent living residents only pay for higher levels of health care if and when it’s needed.

Embracing the Independent Living Lifestyle

You’ve earned your retirement. Independent living can provide a maintenance-free lifestyle that gives you more time to relax, participate in fun activities, better your health, and stimulate your mind. If you’d like to pursue longtime hobbies with neighbors or make friends while discovering new interests, independent living is the option for you.

Carolyn U., who lives in Maris Grove, an Erickson Senior Living managed community located in the Brandywine Valley of Pennsylvania, credits the active lifestyle at Maris Grove, for her all-around well-being.

“Participating in the clubs and activities at Maris Grove has greatly contributed to my physical health and wellness. No need to get in my car; everything is right here. When you live in a house alone, you have to call people and schedule get-togethers. At Maris Grove, it happens automatically. We see each other in the hallway, in club meetings, or just walking outside. It’s a tremendous feeling, to be here and to be so well taken care of,” Carolyn shares.

If independent living at an Erickson Senior Living managed community sounds like it could be a good fit for you, you can view all of the independent living CCRC locations. You can also request a free, comprehensive brochure for more details.