| > | | | | Independent Living: Features |
| | | | Independent living facilities have the following |
| Independent living options are for older adults, | | | | characteristics: |
| typically in their 70s or above, who wish to lead an | | | | * Aid is not provided for daily subsistence activities |
| independent life. | | | | such as dressing, cooking and personal care. |
| The term independent’ denotes | | | | * Personal safety and medical care are the |
| autonomous living, without dependence on others for | | | | responsibility of the residents. |
| residential or health-related purposes. Independent | | | | * The community staff provides some services, such |
| Living establishments for seniors should offer a | | | | as laundry and room service. |
| secure, peaceful, comfortable and healthy lifestyle | | | | * Social gatherings and outdoor activities may be |
| among a community of peers. Seniors should also be | | | | arranged by staff members. |
| provided with easy access to various social and | | | | * Such programs are provided to encourage seniors |
| cultural functions, and fitness activities. | | | | to stay physically and emotionally fit. |
| There are a variety of planned independent living | | | | Independent Living: Advantages |
| communities from which to choose. Ranging from | | | | There are several benefits of independent living, such |
| large-scale, single-family home establishments to | | | | as: |
| smaller-scale, private apartments, these living spaces | | | | * Since everyone belongs to the same age group, |
| are designed to be easily maintained. | | | | there are abundant socializing opportunities. |
| Independent Living: Criteria | | | | * The community is designed to serve the comfort, |
| Independent living options are ideal for those who | | | | security and safety of senior citizens. |
| are: | | | | Some optional services which may be provided to |
| * Relatively healthy and do not require constant aid | | | | residents are: |
| of trained medical helpers. | | | | * Recreational and educational activities, such as a |
| * Prefer to live among people of the same age | | | | visit to the library, classes, lectures and gardening. |
| group. | | | | * Community meals and clubhouse. |
| * Wish to have a circle of friends living close by. | | | | * Local transportation to shopping malls, salons and |
| * Tired of shouldering the responsibility of maintaining | | | | medical appointments. |
| a large home. | | | | * Fitness facilities, such as gymnasiums and swimming |
| * Have sufficient resources to pay for such an | | | | pools. |
| accommodation (the alternative being to look for | | | | * Opportunities for participation in outdoor sports, |
| subsidized housing. | | | | such as golf and tennis. |