If you’re pondering a move to independent living, you probably already know about the appealing, maintenance-free lifestyle that gives you more time to pursue your favorite activities. What’s more, the right senior living community will have amenities and services that can truly elevate your experience of retirement. As you explore retirement communities, you may already have a wish list of features you’re looking for, but let our guide to the top independent living services and amenities inspire you to seek out the very best.
1. Comfortable Residences
The ideal community will offer a variety of floor plans, so you can find the fit that suits your needs and preferences. Upscale finishes add a touch of refinement. Look for additional features like roomy closets, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony or patio, to help create a residence you’ll be delighted to call home. If you’re planning to travel frequently, search for a community with gated security and covered parking, so you know your home, car and other valuables will be protected while you’re away.
2. Health and Wellness Opportunities
One of the perks of living in a retirement community is that amenities like a heated pool, fitness center and yoga studio make it easy for you to stay physically active. In some communities, a personalized fitness program can be created just for you, helping you choose optimal activities tailored to your goals and fitness level.
You might also want to seek out communities that take health and wellness to the next level by offering the restorative benefits of therapeutic massage. Of course, part of self-care is about looking your best, which is easy to do in a community that has an on-campus salon and barbershop.
3. A Culture of Learning
Lifelong learning promotes psychological well-being, helps seniors strengthen their cognitive reserve, and provides an opportunity to be purposefully engaged. Senior living communities, especially those affiliated with universities, offer access to an array of classes and workshops, giving residents the opportunity to choose from a wide-ranging catalog of courses, and attracting a community of curious-minded fellow learners.
4. Arts, Entertainment and More
What about independent living amenities that foster creativity and fun? An on-campus arts studio can give novices and experienced artists alike a place to explore their favorite mediums. Game rooms invite friendly competition. Some communities host on-campus performances of plays and concerts, or provide shuttle services to cultural or entertainment events in the greater community. If you’re a travel enthusiast, consider looking for a community that organizes trips to destinations near and far.
5. An Emphasis on Hospitality
Look for an independent living community where hospitality is woven into their core philosophy. Attentive, personalized service means your comfort and well-being are a top priority, adding a touch of luxury and a warm sense of belonging to your lifestyle.
6. Exquisite Dining
An exquisite dining experience is about more than gourmet meals, although that’s certainly part of it. Equally important are seasonal ingredients, chef-created menus, and a variety of dining venues that give you an assortment of choices to suit your mood and palate.
7. An Appealing Location
Make sure you look beyond the independent living community to the surrounding location, which ideally will expand your opportunities to do the things you enjoy most. Golf lovers will want a location that allows them to conveniently hit the links as often as they like. Sun worshippers may prefer a climate that offers year-round warmth. Sports fans may want to live in a city where they can cheer on the home team or near a university where they can enjoy watching home games.
8. A Plan for the Future
In independent living communities that are part of a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), you can enjoy a thriving lifestyle now and the peace of mind of knowing that, should your needs change, a continuum of care gives you access to the services you need. In a CCRC, assisted living, memory care or skilled nursing are available on the same campus, so a health setback won’t force a disruptive move to a new community. Plus, in CCRCs that offer lifecare, you’ll know you can transition among different levels of care without a significant increase in your monthly fee.
Find the Best at Legacy Pointe at UCF
If your list of preferred independent living services and amenities includes a university affiliation, an on-campus creative arts studio, well-appointed villas and apartments, and lifecare, Legacy Pointe at UCF is the perfect fit. Our 43-acre campus is located adjacent to the University of Central Florida, giving our community a vibrant atmosphere, plus all the benefits of a university affiliation. Contact us to learn more about the amenities and services we offer or to schedule a visit so you can experience the perks for yourself.
