Moving into an independent living community can be a great way for your loved one to maintain independence while getting the assistance they need to thrive
Juniper Village at Bucks County offers residents a supportive and nurturing environment designed to encourage healthy and active lifestyles.
Some signs it might be time to consider independent living include:
- Experiencing social isolation
- A decline in health
- Maintenance and safety concerns around the house
- A desire for community, connection, and convenience
By recognizing these signs and making sure to put together a plan of action with the help of your family, to set your loved one up for a successful transition into independent living in a wonderful new community.
Signs it’s Time for Your Loved One to Consider Independent Living
Social Isolation
Feeling lonely or cut off from others can be a sign that it’s time to think about independent living.
Independent living communities are buzzing with all sorts of social activities and fun things to do! Your loved one will have plenty of chances to make new friends and join in on group adventures. Being a part of a community and making new friends can help your loved one feel more positive and joyful. At Juniper, we are all about engagement and connections!
Declining Health
Some older adults decide to move to independent living communities when their health starts to decline. Independent living communities have medical care right there on-site, along with various support services. These can be accessed as needed and can evolve as needs change.
So whether your loved one is living with a chronic condition, bouncing back from being sick or injured, or just trying to stay as healthy as possible, they can find the support they need in independent living communities.
Maintenance & Safety Concerns
If you’re starting to worry about your loved one being able to keep their home in good shape or about safety, it might be a good time to consider independent living.
In an independent living community, your loved one won’t have to worry about the stress or extra cost of home maintenance. Many communities have staff on-site who can help your loved one keep their home a safe, functioning, and comforting haven.
Desire for Community & Convenience
A lot of folks are drawn to independent living communities because they’re after community and convenience. It’s so much simpler living in an apartment where things like housekeeping, laundry, and even transportation are taken care of for them!
And let’s not forget about the sense of community. With shared spaces and all kinds of social activities, it’s easy for your loved one to feel like they belong.
Transitioning to Independent Living
Moving into an independent living community can really be a great adventure for your loved one when they’re well-prepared and have the right tools at their disposal. It’s all about breaking things down into easy-to-handle steps!
Create a Budget
The first thing you’ve got to do is figure out your loved one’s expenses. Consider things like rent, utilities, food, transportation, and healthcare.
It’s better to overestimate these costs than underestimate them. Make sure you’re keeping track of what’s coming in and what’s going out for your loved one.
Fun-Sizing Instead of Downsizing
Let’s talk about “fun-sizing” your loved one’s home, not downsizing. It’s all about getting rid of the excess and making room for what truly brings them joy.
First up, take a good look at your loved one’s possessions. Ask them questions like “What makes you smile?” Or, “What items hold special memories?” They’re the keepers. Items that don’t spark joy or aren’t practical when moving into independent living may be better to donate. Fun-sizing is an opportunity to celebrate the items that really matter to your loved one.
Fun-sizing helps avoid “maybe” piles and focuses on the most-used and most-loved items only. This is all about making their life easier.
And remember, it’s okay for your loved one to feel a little nostalgic. It’s a big change. It’s important to help them choose to carry forward the things that matter most.
Build a Strong Support System
Share your plans with family and friends. Their emotional support and practical help can be invaluable during this time for you and your loved one moving into independent living. Once your loved one moves in, help them take advantage of social activities and events. They’re a great way to meet new people and form connections!
Remind your loved one that just because you’re moving doesn’t mean they have to lose touch with old friends and neighbors. Help them set up regular phone calls, emails, or even visits to help maintain these important relationships.
Here to Support Your Loved One in Independent Living
The team at Juniper Village at Bucks County is here to support your loved one on their journey to independent living. Come and see what it’s like to be part of our community. We’re waiting to show you and your loved one around—reach out and schedule a visit today!