Independent Living Decision Guide

Albert Einstein famously said, “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.” The prospect of change can be scary, especially when it means leaving your home behind and moving into independent living. 

For many, our fears are heightened because we have seen older adults living in what we used to call nursing homes. While bleak places like that do still exist, there are also independent living communities that look far more like resorts than they do nursing homes. At Crestwood Manor, for example, you’ll find a heated indoor pool, elaborate Sunday brunches, dance classes, a farmers’ market, and much more. 

Ultimately the first step in making a decision about independent living is to ditch all of your preconceived ideas and look toward the future with an open mind. 

Decision Guide for Seniors: FAQs

If you’re thinking about moving into an independent living community, you likely have a lot of questions. Here are some that we hear the most:

1. Q: Why should I move to an independent living community when I’m still healthy and active?
2. A: Retirement communities are ideal for seniors who are still independent and need little to no help with daily activities. Studies show that healthy, active seniors who move into an independent living community are more likely to stay that way. Why? Because life is easier and less stressful. When you don’t have to worry about house maintenance tasks, have predictable monthly expenses, and have the opportunity to take part in robust wellness programs, it’s easier to live a full, engaged lifestyle.
3. Q: Should I be worried my independence will be compromised?
4. A: In an independent living community, you’re able to come and go as you please and are welcome to bring your car. You can also utilize the scheduled transportation offered by the community to head to off-campus events without the worry of parking or walking long distances. Additionally, you’ll have an array of daily activities you can choose to participate in. It’s your life — and you can continue to lead a vibrant lifestyle 
5. Q: What types of services and amenities are offered at independent living communities?
6. A: It’s almost too many to list here, but the best independent living communities offer everything from help with housekeeping to happy hours. They also offer top-quality healthcare, as well as the programs and facilities you need to stay at the top of your game. At Crestwood Manor, for example, you’ll find the LivWell program, which addresses all seven dimensions of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, environmental, and vocational. Art studios, woodworking shops, libraries, swimming pools, and multiple dining options are some of the amenities you’ll find in more modern independent living communities. 
7. Q: Will I find an apartment that meets my needs?
8. A: At Crestwood Manor, you’ll find independent living housing options for every lifestyle. There are 9 different independent living floor plans available with one-bedroom or two-bedroom apartment options. Perhaps more importantly, you’ll also find an apartment that meets your wants. Before moving in, you can choose from a variety of packages so that your living space reflects your personal style, whether it’s traditional, modern, transitional, or contemporary. 
9. Q: Will I be prepared if my healthcare needs change?
10. A: Like Crestwood Manor, the best independent living options are part of Life Plan Communities. That means you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing that, should you eventually require a higher level of care, it’ll be available for you without any hassle to you or your loved ones.
11. Q: Will I be happy with independent living?
12. A: That’s the most important question — and we’ll refer back to that Einstein quote to give our best answer. We’ve found that people who can embrace change enjoy their new lives the most. Instead of living in a 2,500-square-foot colonial where you spent the last three decades cleaning and doing yard work, you’ll have a maintenance-free lifestyle that gives you the time to take a morning stroll to get your morning coffee and chat with new friends. You can follow that up with a swim, an afternoon spent in the art studio, or an outing into town. After dinner, you might want to take in a lecture, play cards, or enjoy movie night. 

Independent Living at Crestwood Manor

At Crestwood Manor, we encourage all residents in our community to live a full and vibrant lifestyle. From a heated indoor pool and fitness classes to a woodworking shop and art studio, we provide the services and amenities enabling you to spend your retirement as you like. Take a look at the Crestwood Manor activity calendar to see the opportunities offered to socialize, learn, compete, work out, and enjoy life. Schedule a visit today to see for yourself what life looks like at our community in Whiting, New Jersey.