Take the Quiz: Is Independent Living in Orlando right for you?

Is Independent Living Right For You?

As we grow older, there comes a time we start asking ourselves if we need a support system to stay healthy and happy. If you’re 62 or over, consider independent living as an investment in your health and happiness.

Burnt Out on Home Maintenance?

Whether independent living is right for you right now depends on several factors. First, consider how much effort you’re putting into maintaining your home and whether you feel it’s worth it. Cleaning, yardwork, repairs…do your chores seem endless with little time left over for family, friends, and fun activities?

Feeling Lonely?

Do you tend to get the blues and wish you were more connected to life outside your four walls?

For some people, social isolation not only leads to lower quality of life, but also causes serious health problems. Researchers have linked isolation to high blood pressure, heart disease and Alzheimer’s. Independent living brings the social whirl to you, with built-in opportunities to make friends and attend a full range of events, from music concerts to cooking classes to art lessons and more.

Missing Great Meals?

Independent living takes the pressure off meal planning, shopping, and dining out. It gives you the option of cooking for yourself or having chef-created meals with plenty of fresh, healthy choices in a restaurant atmosphere. Health considerations are “baked in,” too.

Do You Have the Budget?

Independent living in Florida is more affordable than most other states. In fact, it was ranked in the top 10% for affordability in the 2019 Genworth Cost of Care Survey. According to the survey, the average monthly cost of an assisted living facility is $3,500 in Florida and $4,274 in the highly desirable Orlando – Winter Garden, FL area where Sonata West is located.

Independent living residential agreements and terms vary by community. One thing to look for is whether a community charges a large community entrance fee to cover the cost of health care or monthly rent that varies based on the services you need.

Community entrance fees at Lifecare communities can be steep—$100,000 or more—so it’s often more budget-friendly to pay monthly rent instead.

Independent living communities aren’t usually covered by insurance, but financing options are available.

From there, doing the math is easier than you may think. Many independent living communities have one convenient, predictable monthly fee that covers all the costs of housing and services. If you need assisted living or memory care in the future, some communities like Sonata East at Viera in the Melbourne, FL area can help you make a seamless transition to higher levels of care within the campus. Many residents gain tremendous peace of mind from knowing that they can age in place.

Does a Never-Ending Vacation Sound Good to You?

Independent living in communities like Sonata West in the Orlando area are designed to feel like a vacation 24 hours a day. Expect resort-style dining venues, swimming pools, spas, saunas, gyms, and lounges. What’s more, according to experts, independent living communities have proven health benefits and help you live longer!

Quiz: Is Independent Living right for you?

Take this short quiz to help you decide if you’re ready to check out independent living.

1. Are you 62 years old or older?
2. Would you rather not worry about maintaining your home?
3. Do you want to free up time to enjoy family and friends?
4. Are you interested in finding new hobbies and passions?
5. Are you tired of living alone?
6. Are you unable to cook and dine out as you once did?
7. Do you enjoy entertainment, but find yourself not getting out much?
8. Do you worry about aging and your future?
9. Would you enjoy access to resort-style amenities like a swimming pool, gym, or spa?
10. Do you spend approximately $4,000 a month on living expenses?

If you answered “yes” to five or more questions, you’ll likely benefit in taking the next step in learning about independent living.

Sonata’s communities in the Orlando area offer a variety of lifestyle choices, including independent living, assisted living and memory care. All our communities have robust social and activity calendars, encouraging our residents to make new friends and build stronger connections.