Independent senior living communities most commonly offer apartment or cottage-style living arrangements and are best for seniors that would benefit from companionship, social activities, fitness equipment and other programs.

Independent Living Communities usually have many fun activities for seniors to enjoy. They bring in various entertainment avenues like movie nights, arrange game nights, musicians,  clubs and classes. They also offer outings to local fun spots.  One of the main goals for Independent communities is socialization.

Many of these facilities offer traditional dining services, housekeeping, laundry and transportation. The amenities vary from facility to facility; however, some also offer pools, spas, and onsite hair salons.

They often offer an easier lifestyle for an older adult since there is no more yard work and household repairs. And because senior apartments are age restricted, older adults are surrounded by people of similar age and interests.

There are no universal criteria in place to qualify to live in senior apartments; as such, all senior apartments will likely have their own set of qualifications for residency. Some senior apartments have minimum age requirements, which is usually somewhere between 50 and 62, while others are geared toward low- or fixed-income seniors, and therefore have maximum income requirements in place.

Seniors may choose senior apartments for social reasons, for lifestyle reasons, or for safety and security reasons.

Senior apartments often offer a plethora of features and benefits, including:

• Low- or no-maintenance living
• Gated and secured entrances and buildings
• Building activities
• Private grounds