SENIOR LIVINGSPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Making the Move: Are Your Parents Ready for Independent Living?

Independent living for seniors is a major life decision, and many adult children find the task of helping their parents find the right facility for them can be challenging. It's not every day that your parents decide to make such a significant change, so it takes a lot of effort to help them find the best place. &emsp;&emsp;Independent living communities are for adults, usually aged 55 and older, who don't need assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). Many older adults who want to live in an independent living community are looking for additional support or amenities that make life a bit easier than simply living in their own homes. &emsp;&emsp;Many independent living communities also offer many socializing opportunities and activities, which can be an excellent way for older folks to find friends and peers who have a lot in common with them. &emsp;&emsp;When choosing an independent living community, finding out what amenities are wanted or needed is crucial. You should also decide what living arrangements are essential, such as an apartment, townhome or single-family home. &emsp;&emsp;Independent living amenities and services vary greatly. Most communities offer a myriad of activities, housekeeping services, healthy meals and transportation to stores and appointments. But each community has its unique features, staff and cost to go along with it. Examples of amenities that could be included in an independent living community are: •&emsp;&emsp;Healthy chef-prepared meals•&emsp;&emsp;Utilities such as heat, hot water, electric•&emsp;&emsp;Cable TV•&emsp;&emsp;Wi-Fi and internet•&emsp;&emsp;Housekeeping and linen services•&emsp;&emsp;Maintenance, snow and trash removal•&emsp;&emsp;Transportation for residents•&emsp;&emsp;Shopping trips•&emsp;&emsp;Social hour•&emsp;&emsp;In-house concerts, speakers and activities•&emsp;&emsp;Lunch, theater, music and other outings•&emsp;&emsp;Exercise classes•&emsp;&emsp;Fitness room or gym•&emsp;&emsp;Physical therapy and occupational therapy services &emsp;&emsp;As you consider all of the options, help your parents decide their needs and wants and focus on what kind of lifestyle they would like to maintain. &emsp;&emsp;"Everyone is unique … so when trying to find the right community, it's helpful to be upfront and honest about the things that matter most to you. If being physically active is high on your list, a community with exercise classes and a fitness room will be important," says Christy Thomas, Keene Community Relations Director of American House in Keene. "If your passion is music, a place with regular live entertainment might help you make your decision. For many, being within walking distance to restaurants and shops (like we are at American House Keene) is a huge perk," she adds. &emsp;&emsp;Make a list of things they must have that they feel they could not live without. You should also list things they may like, but it wouldn't be a deal breaker if they weren't available. Make sure your parents aren't going to sacrifice those must-haves, or they may end up someplace that they aren't happy with in the end. &emsp;&emsp;There are many different independent living checklists available online that can not only help get those lists accomplished but they may also give you some new ideas that you had not even considered.