The Top Amenities to Look for in an Independent Living Community

When searching for the ideal senior independent living community, one of the key factors in making the right decision is the amenities offered. In fact, the right amenities can turn the process from simply finding a place to live into discovering a vibrant new home where individuals can thrive. 

Modern independent living communities know that residents are looking for more than just housing in the next stage of their lives. What they truly want are environments that support active, engaging lifestyles while providing convenience and peace of mind. 

Here are some of the top amenities to look for in a retirement community!

Start With Diverse Dining Options

When transitioning to a new home, the first question is often about dining. Senior independent living communities now offer multiple dining venues and options that cater to a wide variety of preferences and occasions. 

Look for communities with various options, such as formal dining rooms, casual bistro kitchens, and even private dining areas where families can gather. Many even offer grab-and-go options that are perfect for busy days.

But the options aren’t the only thing to watch for. The quality of food should match the variety as well. During your tour of an independent living community, make sure to request sample menus and try out a few of the options for yourself. 

The best communities employ professional chefs who use fresh, seasonal ingredients in their dishes and are always looking to incorporate new ideas into the menu!

Look for Health and Wellness Programs

Retirement communities are known for their diverse health and wellness options, and for good reason: studies show that individuals who stay active through their later years enjoy a far higher quality of life and can even slow down the impacts of cognitive and physical decline.

As you tour independent living communities, look beyond basic exercise equipment in workout rooms. You’ll want to find offerings that cater to a wide range of abilities, from water aerobics to yoga. Many will take a holistic approach to health, incorporating mental wellness alongside physical wellness through meditation, mindfulness, and stress management.

Preventative health services should also be included. This means blood pressure screenings, nutrition counseling, and even educational health seminars that keep residents informed about their health.

Engaging Social and Educational Opportunities

One of the greatest benefits of retirement communities is the built-in social network and full calendar of activities. The number of events and groups to join in most communities makes it hard not to feel connected to other residents!

When you tour an independent living community, make sure to take a look at the various spaces in the community designed for activity. Art studios, woodworking shops, gardening areas, and libraries are just a few of the dedicated spaces that many independent living communities are putting in to help residents connect and thrive. 

Look at how the community shapes its programming. The best will have active resident communities that help plan events and activities, ensuring that the calendar stays full and that all events are relevant to resident interests.

Flexible Living Spaces

While the community’s shared amenities are important, personal living spaces are still an important part of life in a retirement community. Look for communities that offer flexible floor plans with universal design features that adapt to changing needs over time. 

Tour different floor plans to get a feel for the layout and determine how your lifestyle might adapt to the new space. Many premium communities offer storage, kitchenettes, and other amenities that make a space feel more like home.

If you aren’t sure if a specific living space layout is right for you, don’t be afraid to ask the community staff. They may be able to give you a bit more information on what other options are available and how you can alter the room to make it feel more comfortable and welcoming.

Find The Best Independent Living Amenities With Elison Independent Living of Statesman Club

Across Oklahoma, senior adults are looking for the best when it comes to their golden years. 

Here at Elison Independent Living of Statesman Club, we work hard to provide the best amenities that cater to resident needs and desires. Many of our amenities are designed for premium independent living, offering convenience and ease for our residents while still promoting a vibrant and social community.

We invite you to schedule a tour of our retirement community today and see how life in our community can help you make the most of your later years!