The Pros and Cons of Independent Living and Aging in Place

Deciding whether you’d prefer to spend your retirement aging in place or making your home at an independent living community is a highly personal choice that depends on your unique personal circumstances. Ultimately, you may find that listing the pros and cons of each living arrangement can help you figure out the lifestyle that makes the most sense for you.

Here are some of the reasons our residents ultimately chose to make The Oaks at Denville their retirement home:

Freedom from meal preparation

While many of our residents enjoy getting their hands dirty in the kitchen (and take advantage of the full kitchens in their senior apartments to do so), a good share of the others do not. Even those who do enjoy cooking appreciate the option to take a day off and let someone else do the dishes now and then. Our variety of dining options, including a casual dining lounge and formal dining room, promote healthy living with nutritious, delicious menus.

Fewer household responsibilities

While you may have once enjoyed keeping up your home and lawn, over time those chores become more physically taxing, not to mention expensive. Our maintenance-free senior living community ensures the yard maintenance, meals, housekeeping, and transportation are all ours to manage, so you can dedicate your time to the things you want to do, whether it’s learning a new skill or honing a hobby you’ve enjoyed for years.

A neighborhood filled with potential friends

In your later years, socialization isn’t as easy as it was when you had a flourishing career, kids involved in school and activities, and a generally busier pace of life. That’s especially true if you live in a single-family home where you’re somewhat isolated from your neighbors. However, socialization plays an important role in your overall well-being as you age. As a resident of an independent living community, you’ll enjoy the best of two worlds: your own private living space, as well as an entire neighborhood of peers in the same stage of life, many of whom may share your interests and life goals.

A way to maintain independence

Many of our residents tell us they’ve been surprised by how moving to the community actually improved their independence. They’re able to access help with challenges that arise before they become major concerns, and our caring staff helps keep an eye out for changes that could affect a resident’s autonomy. Early interventions often mean extending a resident’s independence further than if they were living in a less supportive environment on their own.

Access to an enriching lifestyle

Residents of independent living communities like The Oaks have access to exclusive amenities, opportunities for lifelong learning, and engaging programs that stimulate the mind, body, and amenities/spirit. The wealth of options at your fingertips means you can pick and choose how to spend each day without worry of becoming bored or feeling lonely.

A plan for the unknowns ahead

When it comes to the future, aging at home comes with some risk. If you become sick or need additional support, you or your loved ones may be left scrambling to find a solution. On the other hand, as a resident of a senior independent living Life Plan Community, also known as a continuing care retirement community or CCRC, you can be assured that your future needs will be met, even if you require a higher level of care.

Explore the Unknown

You’re already well-acquainted with your home, but we’ll be happy to introduce you to life at The Oaks at Denville, too. That way, you can make a well-informed decision about whether aging in place or independent living will be the best choice for you.