LIVING WELL Magazine

Laura Nelson, Centura Health at Home discusses Independent Living in a Senior Community in SENIOR Magazine 

Colorado Springs SENIOR Magazine 

Options for Senior Living 

Independent Living in a Senior Community 

By: Laura Nelson 

Over the holidays, many of us visit parents or other older relatives. These visits can be enjoyable, but are often stressful if adult children realize their parents are getting to the point where they need help managing their home or health. One option to consider is a move to independent living in a senior community.  

Independent senior living is a good option for seniors who want social opportunities, security, and access to the services that a senior community provides. Independent living is designed for people who are able to live fairly independently, but want the reassurance of knowing assistance is available if needed. 

Independent living residents usually live in apartments (studio, single or double bedroom, or larger). Residents in these residences can:

Cook in their own apartments, eat in the community’s dining room, or dine out

Drive their own cars, or utilize the community’s scheduled transportation services

Participate in planned activities if desired

Find friendship with others of similar age/interests

Have as much privacy and independence as desired 

Many senior communities, like Medalion Retirement Community in Colorado Springs, have an emergency call system in every apartment. According to Marge Shank, Associate Director of Independent and Assisted Living at Medalion, “If a resident has an emergency, he or she can call for assistance, and a staff member will check on them. It’s a nice benefit, and provides a sense of added well being for residents.” 

Services that are typically offered to independent living residents in a senior community include:

Biweekly or weekly light housekeeping

On-site dining, with the ability to purchase individual meals or meal packages

Planned activities, classes, and community outings

Scheduled transportation to banks, stores and physician offices

Guest accommodations for family and friends

Computer lab with internet access

Off-street parking

Grounds-keeping and snow removal

Apartment maintenance services

Paid utilities (may not include telephone)

Some senior communities also offer other care levels, such as assisted living, nursing home care, and memory care. 

Author Laura Nelson is the Marketing Director at Centura Health at Home. More information about independent senior living and Medalion Retirement Community is at www.centuraseniors.org or call 719-381-1000.