Independent living can be a fantastic choice for seniors looking to enjoy their senior years with freedom and peace of mind. It offers autonomy while giving access to community support, along with all kinds of services and amenities designed to make every day unique. However, there’s a question many people ask before their move—does independent living include meals?
This can vary from community to community, but at Lewes Lodge, we’re committed to giving you total flexibility in your dining options. Instead of a “3 meal-a-day” plan, residents get a dining credit included with each month’s rent. These “dining dollars” can be redeemed at any onsite eatery to cover the cost of your meals!
What is Independent Living?
For many seniors, homeownership isn’t as rewarding as it once was. It takes a significant amount of energy and time to take care of a home—with constant upkeep, maintenance, and repairs needed, many people find it’s no longer worth the hassle. So if a senior is looking for a more maintenance-free lifestyle, what are their options?
If this sounds familiar, it might be time for independent living. This is a residential type of senior living designed solely for older adults looking to downsize their lifestyle. Independent living offers a secure environment where seniors can live independently without the burdens of home maintenance.
While there are private living areas, these communities offer easy access to shared spaces, activities, and more. The goal of independent living is simple—to provide a blend of independence and convenience to seniors looking for a simpler lifestyle where they can spend their time as they choose.
The Benefits of Independent Living
Making the transition to independent living can be an excellent choice for seniors. It offers a way to engage in activities you love while freeing up plenty of time that would otherwise be spent on home maintenance and chores.
Independent living also brings along a host of benefits to make every day a little different. Here at The Lodge at Historic Lewes, residents can enjoy access to:
- Weekly light housekeeping and linen service
- Health and wellness services, including physician visits and therapy services
- Maintenance on-site 24/7 and overnight security
- A state-of-the-art fitness center
- Full-service salon and spa
- Group transportation
- Spacious patios, balconies, and shared outdoor spaces
Meanwhile, residents can even enjoy restaurant-style dining whenever they choose—or try making new recipes for themselves in their homes. Whether you’re looking for a delicious gourmet meal or a light snack, you’ll be able to enjoy quality food in a warm, welcoming, and loving environment through our “Destination Dining” program.
Is It Time for Independent Living?
If you’re tired of constantly taking care of your own home, a move to independent living might be the right decision. Here are some signs that it might be the right time:
- You feel overwhelmed by home maintenance tasks.
- You find yourself spending more time on chores than enjoying hobbies.
- You want to be part of a community and engage with others more often.
- You want to have easier access to medical services and support.
- You’re looking for a safer living environment with security features.
- You’re ready to downsize and simplify your living space.
If any of these resonate with you, it’s likely time for a change. Independent living is often a great way to downsize your lifestyle while still making sure you aren’t compromising on quality of life.
How to Choose an Independent Living Community
Choosing the right community is key. If you’re ready for a change, it’s time to start researching independent living communities near you.
First, start by assessing what you need to maintain—or improve—your quality of life. For example, if you love spending time in nature, you’d likely want to stay away from urban areas; if you enjoy shopping and day trips to nearby stores, you should look for a community near more populated areas.
Don’t forget to think about your proximity to family and friends. A strong support system is an essential thing, and you should make sure that you’re always capable of reaching the people you love.
Then, try to consider:
- The types of amenities offered
- The availability of social activities and events
- Dining options and meal plans
- Transportation services provided
- Safety features, such as emergency response systems
- Pet policies and accommodations
- Flexibility of lease terms and pricing structures
- Reviews and testimonials from current residents
Take your time when you’re researching. Remember: you’re not just looking for a new home. You’re looking for a place that welcomes you with open arms, meets all your needs, and celebrates you every single day as the unique person you are.
Your Future Home Awaits
The move to independent living may seem daunting at first, but it’s an extremely rewarding way to find a place that feels just like home. At The Lodge at History Lewes, our team is here to offer a warm, welcoming environment where you can spend every day in peace, comfort, and tranquility. Book a tour with our community today—your future home awaits.
