Senior Living Blog by UMH | skilled nursing communities

How Senior Living Maintains Independence, Part 1: Independent Living

By: Tracey Haughton December 13th, 2024

Independence is a hallmark of adulthood—one that, for many people, the mere thought of losing is enough to cause profound distress. As we grow older, maintaining independence becomes critical as our bodies and minds begin to reflect the wear and tear of life. A strong sense of independence is essential for seniors' physical, mental, and emotional health. For senior living communities committed to exceptional living and high-quality care, preserving older adults’ independence is at the heart of the journey every step of the way. However, the perception that senior living restricts an older adult’s ability to remain independent can cause resistance to this move, even if a senior can no longer safely live at home. In this three-part series, we will explore how a senior’s independence is honored and prioritized at each level of care: independent living, assisted living, and memory care or skilled nursing. Last month, we discussed what seniors and their loved ones can expect from independent living communities. This article will explore how independent living communities honor a senior’s sense of independence. The Pillars of Independence How an older adult defines independence can vary from person to person. For some, independence may mean being able to drive for as many years as they can. For others, it may mean being able to style their hair each morning. Senior living communities' efforts to maintain senior independence are rooted in a commitment to healthy aging. In support of that goal, we have compiled a brief list of independence “pillars” in the world of senior living.

All posts