As our nation celebrates its 250th birthday and the hard-fought freedoms new Americans earned all those years ago, it’s a good time to reflect on the merits of independence, particularly as they relate to older adults and senior living.
Often, however, “senior living” and “freedom” are at paradoxical odds, as many people believe the former detracts from the latter.
The Independence Paradox
Consider this from AARP:
- 54% of older adults say they worry about losing their independence as they age.
- 37% say that leaving the comfort and independence of their current home makes them hesitant to move to a retirement community.
- More than 80% of adults 65+ want to remain in their own homes as they age.
- 86% of older adults aging in place report that maintaining independence is a major reason why they stay at home.
Clearly, independence is one of the most valued aspects of life. Particularly later in life, well-being is tied strongly to self-sufficiency. The freedom to do as one pleases, go as one pleases and simply be as one pleases is paramount.
Yet many older adults fear that senior living will infringe upon their personal autonomy.
Let’s examine why just the opposite is true…why so many older adults wish they’d moved to a quality community like Collington sooner rather than later, citing more pleasure, purpose and potential than they ever dreamed possible.
The Freedoms of Senior Living
Here are just some of the many freedoms that come with the decision to move from one’s home to senior living:
- Freedom to do what you want. Far from the misconception that residents are shoehorned into cookie-cutter schedules and activities, those in the best communities are free to go and do as they wish, when they wish and with whom they wish. No one is playing “cruise director” dictating what must be done when. At Collington, the choices for activity are endless. Whether it’s the electricity of our nation’s capital just a few short miles away, the natural beauty of our hiking trails winding through campus (an accredited arboretum), a lively game of pickleball or a bevy of thoughtful amenities, residents can immerse themselves in whatever they choose, wherever they choose, at precisely the level that suits them best.
- Freedom from maintenance and chores. Consider the time it takes to maintain a home and yard, fix broken structures and appliances, shovel snow, shop for groceries, cook meals, clean up after meals, etc., etc. It’s exhausting! Imagine what you could do with that time. Anything you want! This is where freedom really shines. Leaving all of the work behind to enjoy all of the pleasures a community like Collington and the surrounding areas have to offer.
- Freedom from isolation. As we age, losing friends becomes an unfortunate fact of life. As a result, many older adults, especially those living alone, suffer devastating loneliness and isolation. In an engaging – and engaged – community like Collington, friendships are plentiful and real. Cliques are a thing of the past, long discarded for genuine connections with kindred spirits. Before people even move in, they’re warmly welcomed by residents who are eager to meet them and show them around.
- Freedom from worry. Many older adults spend considerable energy worrying about what might happen if they become ill, fall at home or need assistance unexpectedly. Senior living provides the reassurance that support is available when needed, allowing residents to focus less on "what if" and more on enjoying today. A word to the wise: don’t wait until an emergency forces you to make a split decision about senior living. Give yourself plenty of time while you’re still able to explore options that are best for you.
- Freedom to grow. Purpose and potential are never outgrown. In fact, the older we become, the more we thirst for opportunities to develop new interests, learn new skills and discover new dimensions of ourselves. Quality communities provide the freedom to pursue lifelong learning, explore creative passions, volunteer for meaningful causes, stay physically active and build new friendships. With fewer daily responsibilities competing for time and energy, residents are free to focus on personal growth, enrichment and the experiences that bring joy and fulfillment to their lives.
- Freedom to lead. At Collington, most committees, programs and causes are led by residents who are experienced, educated and eager to turn their expertise into action. Walk through the community and you'll meet former executives, educators, healthcare professionals, public servants, entrepreneurs, artists and volunteers whose accomplishments span decades. Yet leadership at Collington is not reserved for those with impressive titles or extensive professional experience, nor are residents boastful about their accomplishments. Everyone is encouraged to step forward, share ideas and make a difference, regardless – or because – of their background.
