Manufacturer specifications inform us when our vehicles need maintenance. Expiration dates let us know when our food goes bad and those really annoying, high pitch alarms scream that it is time to change our smoke alarm batteries, but how do we know when it is time for Independent Living?

Although many of us wait until the last possible moment, when we just can’t seem to navigate life as well without it, the best plan of approach is to move to Independent Living while you still can do it without being under duress and, of course, before safety and quality of life becomes compromised.

Some of the most obvious signs that a move to Independent Living would be the best decision include:

• If you or a loved one have suffered a fall it may be time to make the move to Independent Living. Please also keep in mind that the frequency and severity of falls tends to worsen over time, increasing the potential for serious injury or worse.
• If you have become overly reliant on your children (or you are that child) for tasks that you now find difficult – such as shoveling snow, raking leaves, cleaning gutters, mowing your yard, regular home maintenance and repairs and even errands as simple as grocery shopping, it is most assuredly time for Independent Living.
• It may also be time for Independent Living if you are becoming reclusive because you no longer drive or it is just hard for you to get out and about.

Imagine if you lived maintenance-free, your meals were prepared for you, you could take advantage of scheduled transportation, you had access to healthcare if needed, you enjoyed the added security of concierge service and the fact that there was someone was nearby 24/7, you could socialize by simply walking out your front door, and everything you needed was under one roof. Independent Living will provide comfort, convenience, nurture an active lifestyle and assure your independence for as long as possible.