The Top 5 Advantages of Independent Living

Depending on who you ask, either Satchel Paige or Mark Twain, said, “Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter!” While we’d love to believe he was right, every new birthday candle on our cake tells us age does matter. Age impacts our ability to live the life we want, to live independently. So while we can’t do everything we once could, choosing the right independent living can actually enhance our ability to live the life we want.

Advantages of Independent Living

The most obvious advantage of independent living is that you can continue to enjoy the lifestyle you choose. Joining a Life Plan Community like Fellowship Village, which is designed for active seniors, means you’ll enjoy more benefits than the most obvious one. No matter which type of independent living community you choose, you’ll retain your independence and your privacy. Equally important, there are a host of benefits you might not realize can make your life the best it can be.

1. Better Health.

Did you know that a sense of belonging to a vibrant community can reduce the risk of mental health issues and contribute to overall better health? The Grant Study has been tracking the physical and emotional health of a group of men since 1938. The researchers have found that habits, not your genes, play a bigger role in healthy aging. Harvard psychiatrist George Vaillant, who has led this study says that while physical exercise is important to aging well, the most important factor is the quality of our relationships.

2. Easier to Stay Active.

Unless you already have a lifelong habit of routine physical exercise, it can be a challenge to begin one when you’re ready to retire. And according to the Centers for Disease Control, the majority of adults over the age of 55 aren’t getting enough exercise. Why is it important? Because exercise can improve your health. Benefits include lowering your blood pressure, lowering your risk of Alzheimer’s Disease, improving bone density, and helping reduce or prevent chronic illnesses, including diabetes, heart disease, and even some types of cancer.

As a member of our community, you’ll find it easy to get out and get active because this is a judgment-free zone. New to pickleball? Don’t worry. Shy about donning a swimsuit for a pool session? We won’t judge because no one expects runway-ready bodies. Best of all, our physical activities are designed for seniors, complete with any necessary adjustments or adaptations you might need.

3. Better Nutrition.

The research is clear. Good nutrition has a direct impact on your health and can help control your weight and prevent some diseases. But as we age, it can be more difficult to eat a healthy diet. Cooking for one can be a challenge, medication may change how food tastes, or you might simply be tired of cooking. Independent living can free you from making all of your meals, depending on the type of meal plan you choose.

At Fellowship Village, you have a range of culinary choices. When your meal planning is in need of a pick-me-up, the Terrace View Dining Room offers a full menu of chef-curated choices. In the mood for al fresco dining? Gather with friends on the patio at Wilson’s Tapas Bar and Lounge to share small plates like shrimp tacos or tuna tartar. Need something quick? Stop by the Village Bistro & Marketplace for a gourmet dessert or something from the brick-fired oven.

4. A Home Designed for Seniors.

As much as you love your family home, few people chose their forever home with an eye to the type of assistance and adaptive changes they might need in their 70s, 80s, or beyond. Can you still do all of the yardwork to the same standards? Can you still hang the Christmas lights from the eaves? Will you be able to handle the stairs? Is your bathroom ready for someone who might need grab bars or help into the tub? If you needed a wheelchair, could you reach the kitchen cupboards, the sink or even the stove?

Choosing independent living means you’re choosing a maintenance-free home with a floor plan that’s been designed for accessibility. You won’t face the need for thousands of dollars in remodeling costs. Exterior and interior maintenance worries become a thing of the past. You’ll never need to climb a ladder again to replace a bulb or shovel snow from the sidewalk. Best of all, light housekeeping service is also provided, freeing you from the chores of cleaning.

5. Time to Pursue Your Passions.

One of the biggest advantages of independent living is the time you’ll have to pursue your interests and passions. Independent living offers a carefree lifestyle where time spent doing the endless list of daily living chores is behind you. New residents remark on how surprised they are when they realize their stress level has been reduced because there are so many things they don’t need to worry about. The presence of 24-hour security adds a measure of peace they didn’t know they were missing. And having easy access to transportation reduces driving issues and adds even more convenience to your life.

What can you do when you’re not cooking, cleaning, doing yardwork or home maintenance? You can set and realize goals you’ve denied yourself. You can join one of the many classes offered on our 72-acre campus. Perhaps you’ll join the photography club or attend a laughing therapy class? Maybe a museum trip will catch your interest or learning to practice tai chi will add a new spring to your step. Or maybe our putting green will help you shave a stroke off your short game. No matter where your interests lie, you’ll find a community of like-minded people just waiting to become a part of your social circle.

Independent living for active adults age 62+ might sound like a dream come true. But it’s within reach when you make the choice to explore everything Fellowship Village has to offer you. If we’ve piqued your curiosity, we hope you’ll join us for an upcoming event. Call us at 908-580-3840 to contact us. We look forward to meeting you!