What does independence look like to you? Living a life of independence and freedom means different things to different people— it’s all about your perspective.
Does it mean maintaining your morning gym routine, and then heading out to meet friends for a cup of coffee?
Or gearing up for your next global getaway?
Maybe it’s pursuing a passion like photography or putting in a little extra time on the golf course?
Perhaps it means being mentally and financially prepared for life’s little curveballs…
Or maybe, for you, it’s as simple as having a plan in place for your home, your belongings, your lifestyle, and even your future care needs.
Right now, you choose how to fill your days. Good news: that sense of flexibility shouldn’t have to change with whatever retirement living option you ultimately choose!
The things that make you feel independent and free are personal and will likely play a role as you consider where you want to spend the next chapter of your life.
Choosing to “age in place” in your home allows you to maintain your comfortable and familiar status quo. You get to remain in your neighborhood longer, with access to activities you already enjoy, and in the company of people you know and love. Continuing this lifestyle may be a way to maintain a feeling of independence.
It’s also important to consider how your needs and lifestyle will change. Think about how different your life was 10 years ago, and consider what else may change in the next 10 years.
The other side of the independence coin for staying at home is that you may need to navigate those life changes, as well as any future care needs you might encounter, on your own — or with the help of loved ones.
Maintaining a feeling of independence in a retirement community
We know what the stereotypes out there are. For some, moving to a retirement community may be perceived as giving up your personal sense of independence and freedom. But if you’re picturing hushed environments, boring activities, and dining rooms serving up uninspiring fare, maybe it’s time to reconsider this option.
Most retirement communities are robust communities full of residents with varied interests doing what they want to do — not things they have to do. Think about the life you lead today: you can continue to do many of these things and much more. You still get to choose how to spend your days.
This continuity of lifestyle is not limited to your calendar. Many Vi residents bring their cars, pets, and favorite personal belongings with them when they move to one of our Life Plan Communities, which helps make their new homes feel uniquely their own.
So why should you consider moving into a retirement community sooner than later?
Hang on to the relationships you have now — but you can also branch out to build new friendships with people who share your interests. Find a gym buddy, a fellow theatergoer, even a mutual culinary enthusiast!
Try something new — start a book club, sit on a resident board, check out a pilates class or attend a lecture — and continue to enjoy time-tested favorites, like meeting friends at your favorite restaurant or spending the day with your grandkids. At a retirement community, you can fill your calendar however you choose!
...And if you're considering a Life Plan Community, you'll have the added perk of a vibrant lifestyle today with a plan for tomorrow. They're designed to provide a lifestyle that helps support your sense of freedom well into the future, with the benefit of a plan for care should you need. Learn more about Life Plan Communities.
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The steps you’re taking to carefully research your options while you have the flexibility in your choices may be one of those things that makes you feel independent and free.
No matter where you end up living out the next chapter of your life, you’re empowering yourself to make the best decision for you today and in the future.
Are you curious about what your personal vision of independence might look like in Life Plan Communities? Explore our communities.
