INDEPENDENT LIVING

Independent living facilities offer elders the opportunity to rent or purchase an apartment or condominium within a complex or campus offering recreational and social activities, and sometimes transportation services. Residents live independently while being part of a community of others in similar circumstances. The primary benefit of independent living facilities over conventional living situations are the recreational and social opportunities they offer residents, and the assistance such social opportunities may provide in preventing social isolation and depression. Generally, no special health care services or assistance with activities of daily living are offered.

The costs for living in an independent living facility will depend on local housing market conditions. Costs are generally similar or slightly more than rates paid to live in regular apartments, condominiums, or town homes of comparable quality. Rent or mortgage payments are generally funded out of pocket with private income. Insurance does not pay for independent living facility costs since no health services are rendered. Because they offer a completely independent living situation, such facilities are not subject to special governmental support.