Independent Living vs. Dependent Living - By: Cliff H. Hemmingway

There's a big difference between independent living and living independently. Independent living is usually defined as a residential setting for elderly or senior adults that may or may not provide hospitality or supportive services. Residents lead an independent lifestyle that requires minimal or no extra assistance. It may also refer to seniors who are able to continue living at home but need some help. It offers independence at home, but can be costly depending on level of care needed. The next step is usually assisted living.

Living independently means you are healthy enough to enjoy your retirement. Retirement is a wonderful, life-changing time in your life...and one of those changes may include moving to a new home or apartment, or moving to a retirement community. Unless of course, you don't like change...then you can remain in your old home and keep doing what you're doing.

Are you looking forward to retirement or are you dreading it? Are you surrounded by friends and family? Are you active in your community and house of worship? Does your local weather curtail your movements? Can you afford to remain where you are? Do you think that moving would be out of the question? If you're happy and you know it, clap your hands.

If, however, you would consider moving to a more hospitable climate like Florida, have you thought about where you would live? For example, would you pack up and move to Palm Beach County on the advice of a real estate agent who is trying to convince you to buy a home there? Unless it's in a wonderful active adult or retirement community, you may end up isolated to fend for yourself.

Choosing where to retire is an important decision, and the right retirement community can lead to years of contentment, pleasure and enjoyment. Retirement shouldn’t be boring. Living in a master-planned community can be stimulating if you socialize and get involved with community activities. Being active is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Activity feels good, gives you more energy, and makes you feel better about yourself. Some of the favorite activities for Florida's 55+ adults are: bowling, tennis, golf, fishing, biking and hiking.

Being active will also give you opportunities to meet people, make new friends, try new things, learn new skills, and have more fun. Being physically active doesn’t have to be a chore or very active for that matter. Bridge, chess, bingo, quilting, or billiards can be just as stimulating as tennis or golf, at least mentally. Most people who dance, swim, play tennis, do arts & crafts, play cards or join hobby clubs do it because they like it! And it’s much easier to stay active when family and friends are active with you. Decide which activities you enjoy doing with others, because then you are more likely to stick with those pursuits. Don't isolate yourself. Become part of an active adult community and enjoy life.

Many active adult communities are gated and are operated by on-staff personnel so you can take comfort in knowing that only residents or approved visitors will be able to enter your community. With so many perks and amenities associated with living in an active adult community, and the least not being a beautiful new home with modern features and luxurious, it is easy to understand why so many retirees are deciding that this type of lifestyle is the best choice for them. To enjoy living independently, don't be disconnected. Move to an active adult community and become part of the clubhouse scene. Hint: make sure it has a Social/Lifestyle Director. You'll love it.

About the Author

If you are looking for Florida Retirement Communities, I recommend that you check out GL Homes, south florida's number one home builder. There are alot of benefits when buying a Florida home.

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