Apartment Living Provides Many Advantages for Older Adults

Living alone can be, well, lonely. That’s especially true for older adults who may have outlived their spouse, whose adult children live out of town, or who may not have many friends around to visit with. Add to that any potential health concerns, and having a house to themselves may not seem like the most fulfilling or safest situation.

If you have a loved one – or you’re the one living alone – who needs some social interaction or would like to live in a community of your peers, it may be time to consider moving to an apartment in a senior community.

Living in an apartment has plenty of advantages and benefits, and they aren’t limited to social opportunities. This blog will summarize some of the most important benefits and give you or your loved one some things to consider if a move is being discussed.

Smaller Living Space

It’s common for older adults to want to downsize their living space. Living in an apartment is easier to navigate around, including potentially no stairs to climb.

There is also less cleaning and maintenance. Sometimes, housekeeping and maintenance services are even included in residents’ monthly service fees.

Network of Friends

You’re never too old to make new friends. Apartment living is a great place to meet people with similar interests and experiences. It’s vital for mental, emotional, and physical health, too.

Some seniors who live far away from family or whose spouses have passed away don’t always get the support they need. Making friendships among other apartment residents can be valuable and greatly improve quality of life.

Community Activities

It’s always nice to have something to do when you want to. Apartment living provides seniors with plenty of activity options, so each day can be a new adventure.

Many senior living communities also provide residents access to social areas, game rooms, outdoor recreation, arts and crafts classes, or even day trips to see shows, shop, or eat out.

Activities

Staying physically and mentally active can help your loved one live longer and improve their quality of life. But not everyone can access workout equipment or safe physical activities if they live alone.

Many senior living communities have wellness classes, salons, game rooms, libraries, spiritual services, and gardens that residents can enjoy.

Security

Older adults want to feel safe; who doesn’t? Living alone can sometimes give a feeling of anxiety or insecurity. What if someone breaks in? What if I get rowdy neighbors? What if the furnace breaks in the dead of winter?

Senior apartment communities typically feature security systems and sometimes a security officer or other staff for after hours. There is also controlled access, so only authorized employees and visitors can enter the premises. Some rooms are also equipped with emergency call systems for times when the staff needs contacted immediately.

All of these amenities give older adults (and their families) peace of mind and fulfilling options. One of the best things about all of these benefits of apartment living is that seniors are able to be even more independent and in control of their lifestyle, without the burdens of home ownership.

To learn more about our senior living apartments and the options offered by Shepherd of the Valley, visit shepherdofthevalley.com/independent-living/.