4 Reasons independent living care is the right choice

What a year! The COVID-19 pandemic has changed all our lives in many ways. Now, thanks to available vaccines, society is taking steps to return to normalcy.

Many older adults are starting to look into senior independent living communities following a year of isolation as the COVID-19 pandemic restricted family celebrations, closed businesses, cancelled activities and caused uneasiness about going to public places to pick up groceries, visit a doctor, pick up a prescription, etc. As communities slowly reopen restaurants, gathering spaces and public areas, many seniors are once again considering a move to an independent living care community. The good news is the right now is the right time to consider independent living care.

Reduced Loneliness and Increased Social Opportunities

One of the worst issues caused by the pandemic’s restrictions is social isolation resulting in increased loneliness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is strong evidence that many older adults are socially isolated or lonely in ways that put their health at risk. Studies indicate that these factors increase a person’s risk of dementia, premature death from all causes and are associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety and suicide.

One of the biggest benefits of living in an independent living care community is social opportunity. Country Meadows is filled with neighbors from the same age group with similar life experiences, resulting in many new friendships. Our independent living residents are provided tons of opportunities for an active social life, both on and off campus, through social events, fitness classes and training, spiritual enrichment and educational programs, recreational activities, entertainment and outings. Residents delight in seeing familiar faces of old friends who enjoy the same pastimes and welcome the chance to make new friends. 

Worry-free living

While owning your own home has its rewards, it also comes with many responsibilities. Moving to an independent living care community eliminates the worries of home ownerships such as mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, performing home repairs and paying taxes and utility costs. At Country Meadows, life is easy as your monthly rent includes the aforementioned items as well as:

• Private independent living apartment with a choice of floor plans
• Continental breakfast and one main meal every day with drinks and snacks available around the clock (varies per community)
• Maintenance-free senior living with weekly housekeeping and laundry services
• Emergency response in the event of illness with 24-hour access to medical staff
• A pet-friendly independent senior living community where your animals are welcome
• Scheduled transportation
• Private senior living Vibrant and engaging Community Life programs that focus on the body, mind and soul

Access to Care

Country Meadows offers its residents numerous programs to maintain independence. However, as we age, we may develop chronic health conditions, memory impairments or physical challenges requiring additional services in personal care, memory support or restorative care. These additional levels of care are available at every Country Meadows location, allowing a resident to transition to a higher level of care while still living at the same location, keeping the same friends and neighbors. No one likes to lose his/her independence, but living at the same campus provides access to the same friends, activities, hobbies and opportunities enjoyed while residing in independent living care.

Safety and Peace of Mind

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, all of us should be taking additional precautions and safety measures to avoid exposure to the virus and protect others, especially vulnerable groups. Independent living communities that develop strong protocols and procedures to fight COVID-19, such as Country Meadows, are some of the safest and fulfilling places for an older adult to live right now.

At Country Meadows, numerous COVID-19 procedures and protocols are continually developed by a task force of company experts, including former hospital Chief Nursing Officers and those certified in infection control measures. This task force offers expertise in many areas.

• Providing guidance on clinical matters such as prevention and treatment.
• Monitoring and suggesting operational policy changes to reduce potential spread on campuses.
• Managing procurement of critical supplies such as protective gear and sanitization products.
• Researching chemicals and strategies to properly clean and sanitize campuses.

Residents and their family members can have peace of mind knowing they are receiving excellent care and services at all times, even during a pandemic.

Country Meadows has nine locations in Pennsylvania and one campus location in Frederick, Maryland. Often referred to as one of the best independent living communities in the area, we offer a wide range of services to serve a variety of resident needs. The services within our independent living care communities include restorative care, rehabilitation, personal care and assisted living, memory support and independent living. If you or a loved one are beginning the retirement planning journey and would like more information about our independent living communities, please contact us today. Our co-workers can provide details on the services we offer, help you to schedule a tour of our independent living communities and answer any other questions you might have.