retirees
Indy-lifestyle.com
Independent Living Centers: Price and Features
Over 4,500 centers in our list.
About
Administrator

This site was started when I couldn't get the information I wanted about Independent Living Centers. My mother happily lived in an Independent Center and I think they are a good concept.

But I couldn't easily find out basic information -- like the cost! This site hopes to make that easier. We are providing prices as we get them. But YOU, our users, can help by updating prices (and other info) as you acquire it. We make it easy.

In addition we are particularly proud of our calculator which looks at your entire budget and will tell you how much it costs to move into an Independent Center.

I hope you find this site useful. Continue the introduction by pressing the NEXT button.

Mark Davidsaver

About

Who are Independent Living Centers For?
  • checkmarkTired of taking care of a house?
  • checkmarkTired of taking care of a yard?
  • checkmarkStairs a worry?
  • checkmarkTired of cooking every meal?
  • checkmarkStill Active?
If you answered YES to any of these questions,
It's You!
About

Advantages
  • One or more meals a day will be served
  • Provided meal(s) greatly lower your grocery expenses
  • No more home maintenance: things are fixed, light bulbs are changed, etc
  • Rides will be provided: you only have to drive if you want to
  • Your rent includes all utilities, usually including cable TV
  • Regularly scheduled housekeeping will be provided
  • Many organized and informal activities: there will always be a card game
  • Laundry in your own apartment or center provided
  • A variety of apartment sizes
  • 24 Hour Security
  • Many have indoor parking
About

Disadvantages
  • It might cost more than staying in your home
  • Rent probably is not fixed
  • Less room for all our 'stuff'
  • Entertaing Grand kids may be more challenging
  • There will be an extra fee for two people
About

Rental


Rental is just what it sounds like.
  • You Rent your home
  • You Pay Less up front to move in
  • Many Centers offer apartments and Condos

Frequently the Independent Living Facility will also offer Assisted Living and Full Nursing care. If you move to an increased level of care you would have to pay more for these services on a monthly basis.
About

Buy-in


Most Buy-in facilities work like an annuity.
  • You pay a lump sum up front to join
  • You pay a monthly maintenance fee (which can be quite hefty)
  • Much harder to move out
  • Many offer apartments and Condos

Some Buy-in centers are called Lifeplan Communities or may have other names. Almost always multiple levels of care are available and your buy-in makes you eligible for them. Levels of care available may include: Independent Living, Assisted Living and Full Nursing. The idea is that as you age and need more care you can move to the next level. Sometimes you will have to pay more for the extra care - sometimes it is included in your initial annuity payment.