What Does Independent Living at a CCRC Really Mean?

You’ve probably come across the term “independent living” a lot while searching for senior living. Find out what that means for a CCRC and gain a better understanding as you explore retirement living options. Hear first-hand experiences from current residents about their lifestyle in independent living.

More Time for You, Less Responsibility

Think of independent living as an opportunity to let go of some of the responsibilities you’ve spent years stressing over, without having to sacrifice the comforts and privacy of your own home. Regular house maintenance and upkeep is no longer your responsibility. Enjoy housekeeping and linen service to keep your place tidy, and take comfort in the perfectly manicured lawns and gardens that you don’t have to tend to.

It’s like a current resident at an independent living community says, you’ll have more time to spend doing what you really love. “Being retired here at Searstone takes a lot of responsibility away from us — I don’t own a home, so all of the housework and day-to-day stuff is gone. So I can devote most of my time doing things for the community, which I love.”

And when your time frees up from housework, you can fill it with the fun stuff that’s offered in the community.

Socializing and Friendships

Remaining in your home during retirement can be lonely and making friends can be difficult as you get older. Independent living offers many opportunities for you to meet others, with endless ways to get to know them through programs, events and recreational activities. You’ll be able to dedicate time to your hobbies, while meeting friends with similar interests.

One resident of Searstone shares, “I’ve made some great friends through book club and women’s discussion group on Tuesday mornings. If you are a people person, it’s really great to have this opportunity. There is always more to learn.”

Another resident has a similar experience, always looking forward to making friendships anywhere in the community. “We’ll ask to be seated with anyone at dinner, always gaining new friendships. And the interesting people who live here have all different backgrounds — we all blend together and learn from each other.”

If you’re a people person and looking to make friendships, independent living is the way to go.

Health and Wellness Benefits

You know how important it is to prioritize your health, but eating well and exercising requires planning, patience and effort on your part. Independent living in a retirement community will arm you with the resources you need to focus on your health and wellness during your senior years. These resources take the guesswork out of living a healthy lifestyle so you can rely on professionals and trust you’re doing what’s right for your body.

One resident of Searstone independent living in Cary, North Carolina details her health and wellness experience and how it’s incorporated into her independent living lifestyle. “I usually participate in Zoom fitness classes three times a week. There’s so much to do. I’ve always been an active person. Exercise is so important to staying healthy and being mentally sharp. It’s amazing what it does for you.”

Independent living communities have fitness centers, pools and spas, walking trails, and fitness classes to ensure you can get your exercise in. In addition, the dining areas offer vast nutritional options to provide meals for every palette.

Independent Living in the Continuum of Care

Simply put, a continuum of care provides healthcare that you need when you need it. So when you’re a part of the independent living community, you’re living your own private life without much interference from staff or medical professionals. You don’t need any medical assistance aside from routine checkups and visits. At a CCRC, long term care services will be available to you when you need it, even though you don’t right now.

For example, the Continuing Care approach typically includes different levels of living including independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation.

• Independent living means you have the comforts and privacy of your own home, with the convenience of living in a community with everything you need nearby.
• Assisted living is available when you’re in need of medication management and additional support with daily tasks.
• Memory care is for those who are experiencing mild to moderate dementia.
• Skilled nursing takes place in a private setting for personal care and 24/7 nursing assistance.
• Rehabilitation is available for those who require extra attention while recovering from an illness or injury.

So a CCRC provides the best of both worlds — the opportunity to live independently with resources available to enrich your life, and the peace of mind knowing you have care options for the future.

About Searstone

Searstone is a CCRC that could be the right place for you or your loved one, and The Highview expansion is your opportunity to be a part of this vibrant community. For more information, please visit our website or call us at 919-234-0339.