There are a lot of things to consider when looking for independent senior living, and Winston Salem is a great place to start. Whether you’re already a part of our great city, or if you’re thinking of settling down here, this article will help you take the next step on the road to a happy retirement.

Independent Senior Living and Winston Salem

Our facility is best suited for adults who want to maintain their privacy but also want to be part of a community, but if you require a higher level of care and still want to be part of an active community, then assisted living might be a better option for you.

With independent living, you can expect that the community staff will handle the grounds outside as well as the common areas. There may also be individual housekeeping services available.

If you need assistance with daily living activities such as medication management, bathing, or mobility assistance; then assisted living would be your best option.

Staying Active and Social

One of the biggest fears that seniors have when it comes to independent living is being isolated. They feel that they will be disconnected from their surroundings. They might also believe that the facilities will be lacking in professionalism and availability of services.

This may be the case in a small number of independent living communities but not for the majority. These communities are set up to help older adults lead a healthy, active, and social lifestyle. Most importantly, it advocates for a lifestyle where you maintain full control.

Heritage Woods provides a full spectrum of these benefits for its residents.

Meal Plans

Independent senior living meal plans

Meal options can vary greatly. Some facilities include them as part of the cost of senior living and serve them in common areas. Others offer meals in dining halls on an as-needed, part-time, or full-time basis. Some communities even have cafes, restaurants, and other shops on-site to cater to a wide variety of culinary tastes.

Having a meal plan when it comes to independent senior living doesn’t mean that you’re forced to always eat out. Some rooms can have semi or full-sized kitchens where you can cook for yourself and your guests. There are even some facilities with larger communal kitchens where meals can be cooked for the entire family or for special events.

Having a Pet

Contrary to popular belief, independent senior living communities aren’t all about rules. The main goal of these communities is to set you free so you can enjoy your retirement to the fullest. Having a pet is just one part of that.
Most communities allow cats and dogs (small to medium-sized). Larger communities may allow bigger dogs with some regulations. Rural communities may allow livestock and horses.

Housekeeping Services

One of the biggest benefits of assisted living is that it helps to free older adults from household chores.

A survey done by AgeWave consultants found that adults 65 and over who choose to remain living in their home spend close to three hours per day on household chores including gardening, shopping, and home repairs.

While some people might enjoy these activities, they aren’t for everyone.

Space for Hosting Gatherings

Host gatherings at Winston Salem independent senior living communities

If having the option of visitors with overnight stay is a priority, then finding an assisted or independent living community that caters to guests shouldn’t be difficult.

The space can be as comfortable as you wish. Whether you live in a studio or an apartment, the premises should be able to accommodate guests for the duration of their stay.

If you cook your meals or eat at an on-site restaurant, then making meal plans for your guests can be simple. When dining in the common area, guest meals can typically be paid for to allow for a shared and enjoyable experience.

Groundskeeping and Maintenance

Housekeeping services can remove the indoor burden of chores while groundskeeping can eliminate the headache of outdoor maintenance, leaving more time for socialization and fun activities.

Many seniors face physical hurdles, creating difficulty in everyday household maintenance. Instead of hiring someone else to perform such tasks, assisted living or independent living can provide necessary routine services.
In the event of inclement weather, living in a senior care community can be even more convenient without mandatory weatherproofing!

Residents whom enjoy gardening as an outdoor hobby have access to material and garden space to exercise their green thumbs and watch everything grow.

Staff on Hand

Most independent senior living communities do have staff on hand, but they’re not always medically trained. All staff members should know basic first response techniques (including CPR) and how to respond to emergencies.

With assisted living or nursing homes there will typically be formal training programs and a team of licensed nurses.

How Much Does Independent Senior Living Cost?

The monthly costs of senior living can vary greatly. It all depends on the city and state, available amenities, housing quality, extra services requested, etc. In short, everything is individualized.

The average cost for independent senior living is approximately $12,000 – $42,000 per year. For assisted living prices increase to $28,800 – $66,000 per year. Nursing homes average at $86,000 – $90,000 per year.

The base cost of independent senior living is often the most affordable, but many communities offer an a la carte approach with which residents can choose which supplementary services are needed at additional cost.

Searching for a Senior Living Community

Reviews written by residents and their loved ones are great resources for finding an ideal independent or assisted living community. Physical tours are essential, and familiarity with pricing and the breakdown of amenities will allow for easier comparison.

When it comes to assisted and independent senior living, Winston Salem and the Heritage Woods community can answer all of your questions. We’d love to hear from you!