By Teresa Plumeri, Marketing Representative at Chapel Oaks
Key Takeaways
- Independent living gives residents the freedom to choose how, where and with whom they spend each day.
- Residents have private apartments with their own patio and garage, decorated however they like.
- An on-call maintenance team and round-the-clock support remove the burden of home upkeep.
- Many residents find lasting friendships with neighbors who share their interests.
- Families stay closely involved through visits, celebrations and everyday moments.
- The most common thing residents say: “I wish I had done it sooner.”
When I meet prospective residents and their families, our conversations are rarely about square footage or floor plans. More often, we talk about lifestyle, privacy and the freedom to choose how to spend each day, where to spend it, and with whom.
Many people are surprised to learn that independent living today is very different from what they imagined. What I see every day at Chapel Oaks is a community of active, engaged people who are enjoying life and building meaningful connections.
What is independent living?
Independent living is a senior living option where older adults live in their own private apartment within a community, with home maintenance handled for them and activities, social opportunities and support available whenever they want them.
The greatest benefit is exactly what the name suggests: independence.
What do residents do in independent living?
Residents choose how they spend their days, and there is no schedule to follow.
Some enjoy fitness classes, outings to the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra or the casino, or community events. Others prefer a quieter pace, with time spent reading, gardening, visiting family or relaxing at home. The freedom to choose is what makes independent living so appealing.
Do you have privacy in independent living?
Yes. Your apartment is your home, decorated the way you want it, and your patio and garage are yours.
Community is an important part of life at Chapel Oaks, but so is privacy. Some residents even transform their garage into a crafting space or workshop. Some people enjoy a full calendar of activities, while others simply appreciate knowing those opportunities are there whenever they want them.
Is it easy to make friends in independent living?
For most residents, yes. People quickly discover they’re surrounded by neighbors who share similar experiences and interests.
Moving somewhere new can feel like a big step, but one of the most rewarding things I witness is the friendships that develop. Rita, a Chapel Oaks resident for six years, often says she wishes she had moved in sooner because of the friendships she’s made.
Is home maintenance included in independent living?
Yes. Residents have an on-call maintenance team and round-the-clock support, which many say they didn’t realize they needed until they moved in.
It’s more than fixing and repairing things. When Leah, another Chapel Oaks resident, wanted her bathroom and kitchen cabinets refinished, Dave and Rob from our maintenance team took care of it. It’s about helping residents make their home exactly how they want it.
Is independent living worth the cost compared to owning a home?
For many people, the value is freedom from the to-do list. Owning a home comes with maintenance, repairs, landscaping, snow removal and everything in between.
With everyday tasks taken care of, residents spend less time managing a home and more time doing what they enjoy: traveling, meeting friends for lunch, pursuing hobbies or simply enjoying a slower morning with a cup of coffee.
How are families involved in independent living?
Families are often the biggest supporters of a move to independent living, because they see the benefits firsthand: loved ones making new friends, staying active and living with greater confidence and peace of mind.
Family members become part of the extended Chapel Oaks community through visits, celebrations and everyday moments. It’s not uncommon to see visiting grandchildren, family gatherings and even four-legged family members welcomed by name.
A new perspective on independent living
Independent living isn’t about giving something up. It’s about creating opportunities for connection, wellness, convenience and peace of mind.
Every person’s journey is unique, but residents tell me again and again how much they enjoy the lifestyle they’ve created and the friendships they’ve built. And the most common reflection of all is this:
“I wish I had done it sooner.”
Visit Chapel Oaks
Chapel Oaks is an independent living community at St. Ann’s Community in [Irondequoit, NY]. To schedule a tour, call [phone number] or visit [link].
St. Ann’s Community: Caring for the Most Important People on Earth™
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between independent living and assisted living?
Independent living is for older adults who live on their own without daily help with personal care. Assisted living provides hands-on support with daily activities such as bathing, dressing or medications.
Can you have a garage in independent living?
At Chapel Oaks, yes. Residents have their own garage and patio, and some turn the garage into a crafting space or workshop.
Do you have to participate in activities in independent living?
No. There’s no required schedule. Residents join activities whenever they like or enjoy a quieter pace at home.
Are pets allowed in independent living?
Yes! Chapel Oaks is a pet friendly community.