Independent living or congregate housing communities are residential communities for active older adults who want an enjoyable lifestyle free of the worries and trouble of home maintenance. They are similar to any apartment, condominium, or single-family development, except that they provide special services, including security—an important consideration for many residents. Most independent living communities are fully secured; staff members greet and screen all visitors around the clock. Residents can leave home for extended periods of time knowing that their living quarters will be safe.
As the name implies, Independent Living is just that: the ability to maintain one’s residence and lifestyle without custodial or medical assistance. More recent, a lot of Independent Living Communities offer separate areas where assisted living services are available. These sectors are provided for residents that are in the beginning states of requiring assistance with daily activities.