Independent Living: Retirement the Way You Want It

Feb 10, 2022 | Life At Sunset, Senior Living

For many people, retirement is a time of excitement. You’ve worked hard all these years and it’s time to focus on the next chapter! But what does this vision look like? If you’re newly retired or approaching that transition, you might think it’s too early to think about a senior living community, especially if you tend to equate them with nursing homes. There are several misconceptions about senior living, with a major concern being a loss of independence—a feeling many are not eager to experience. We’re here to show you just how independent of a life you can lead within a Sunset Senior Community.

An Active Community

Sunset Independent Living residents are an active and vibrant community. Most of these residents live completely on their own within our campus, coming and going as they please, and working or volunteering within the larger West Michigan area. As an Independent Living resident, you’ll find that not only are you able to keep your familiar schedule and hobbies, but you’ll have more time to pursue other adventures and social opportunities. One of the benefits of becoming a resident is that you no longer need to worry about home maintenance, as it’s all covered under the cost of Independent Living. Instead of spending your time maintaining your home and navigating unexpected repairs, you can focus on the things that bring you joy and enjoy your retirement how you want to.

Activities & Amenities

At Sunset, we know no two people are the same. Our Life Enrichment Team ensures there’s something to interest everyone, incorporating residents’ hobbies and interests as they plan socials and outings throughout the year. Some of these activities may include concerts, theater visits, Bible studies, worship services, book clubs, and educational classes. Residents are encouraged to participate in as many as they’d like. If you prefer keeping to yourself, our communities include beautiful grounds and scenic walking paths, perfect for an afternoon stroll or moments of quiet reflection.

We currently offer two options for Independent Living: The Manor & Villages and Waterford Place. Each campus has its own convenient onsite amenities to fill our residents’ days. Depending on the community you decide to call home, you may have access to an arts & crafts studio, wood shop, library, billiards room, computer lab, or an aquatic center, with unique dining venues to keep you fueled throughout your busy day. No two days will be the same, which makes our communities the ideal place for residents to enjoy life at their own pace.

A Continuum of Care

Planning for retirement means preparing for your future, and this should include thinking about future changes in healthcare needs. Sunset is a Life Plan Community, which means residents don’t have to worry about future care. Our customized Life Plans are tailored to our residents’ physical, mental, and spiritual needs, accommodating necessary adjustments in care such as a transition to Assisted Living or a need for in-home help.

This continuum of care is designed to adapt with your unique needs and circumstances, allowing us to serve each individual resident in the best way possible. By planning ahead for these potential changes you can live your retirement years to the fullest, secure in the knowledge that no matter where life takes you, you’ll be well taken care of.

Where To Begin?

Are you or a loved one about to enter this exciting new stage of retirement? We know researching your options and weighing costs can be difficult to navigate, and we’re here to help. You might prefer the familiarity and comfort of your current home, but there are a variety of reasons it may make more sense to move into a senior living community, if only to do more of what you want and less of what you don’t. We recommend you begin by downloading our guide: “Navigating the Financial Aspects of Senior Living,” which will walk you through the main levels of care, payment options, how to access care, and more of the unique benefits of a Life Plan Community. We’re sure you have plenty of questions, and we’re more than happy to answer them. Call our main office at 616.457.2770 or send us a message online.