What Is Independent Living?

What Is Independent Living?

Independent living is a senior living option designed for active older adults who want to enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle in a community-centered environment while maintaining their independence. At Longhorn Village in Austin, TX, independent living offers residents an opportunity to live comfortably in a vibrant, social and engaging environment with access to top-tier amenities, activities and personalized services tailored to their needs.

Unlike assisted living, independent living is best suited for seniors who do not require daily assistance with personal care but want the convenience of home upkeep, dining options and recreational activities without the responsibilities of maintaining a house.

Longhorn Village is a Life Plan Community, meaning residents can enjoy independent living now while having a plan in place for future health care needs. We offer what is referred to as a full continuum of care. Older adults move into independent living – able to take advantage of everything this vibrant community has to offer – and should they need care in the future, it’s available right here on our campus. In addition to independent living, we offer assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation and skilled nursing.

Independent Living Services and Amenities

At Longhorn Village, independent living goes beyond just a place to live — it’s a lifestyle filled with opportunities, friendships and ease. Residents enjoy access to:

  • Spacious and beautifully designed apartment homes with modern finishes
  • Housekeeping and maintenance services
  • Chef-prepared dining options offering both casual and upscale dining experiences
  • A fully equipped fitness center with specialized classes for seniors
  • Engaging social, recreational and educational opportunities
  • Access to on-site medical care and wellness programs
  • Concierge services for errands and scheduled transportation

With these things taken care of, residents can focus on enjoying their retirement rather than managing daily responsibilities.

Who Is a Good Fit for Independent Living?

Independent living at Longhorn Village is ideal for active older adults who:

  • Want to simplify their lifestyle by eliminating home maintenance and yard work
  • Enjoy socializing with peers and participating in community activities
  • Value security and convenience in a supportive environment
  • Want access to amenities such as dining, fitness and cultural events
  • Appreciate the peace of mind that comes with having a continuum of care available if needed in the future

Other Types of Senior Living to Consider

While independent living is a great fit for many seniors, it may not be the right choice for those who:

  • Require daily assistance with tasks like bathing, dressing or medication management (assisted living may be a better fit)
  • Have advanced memory loss or cognitive decline (memory care may be needed)
  • Need 24/7 care (skilled nursing would provide better support)

Longhorn Village offers all of these levels of care, ensuring that residents can transition seamlessly if their needs change over time.

Independent Living Costs

The cost of independent living varies based on location, services and amenities offered. At Longhorn Village, pricing is structured to provide excellent value for the services and benefits included.

Financial Assistance Options for Independent Living

While Medicare and Medicaid do not cover independent living, there are other financial options to help seniors afford this lifestyle:

  • Veterans Benefits – Eligible veterans and their spouses may qualify for the Aid & Attendance benefit.
  • Long-Term Care Insurance – Some policies cover certain aspects of independent living.
  • Home Equity – Selling a home or leveraging equity can help fund independent living.
  • Life Insurance Conversions – Some policies allow seniors to convert life insurance into cash for senior living expenses.

At Longhorn Village, our team is available to help families explore their options.

What To Consider When Choosing an Independent Living Community

When selecting an independent living community, it’s important to evaluate factors that will impact long-term happiness and well-being.

Social and Recreational Opportunities

Longhorn Village offers:

  • Daily scheduled programming such as fitness classes, lifelong learning lecture series (Inquiring Minds) and social gatherings
  • Group outings to Austin’s cultural and recreational hotspots
  • Clubs and hobby groups tailored to residents’ interests

Dining Services

At Longhorn Village, dining is an experience rather than just a meal. Options include:

  • Chef-prepared meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients
  • Flexible dining plans to accommodate different lifestyles
  • A variety of dining venues, including casual bistros and elegant restaurants

What If I Need More Care in the Future?

One of the biggest advantages of choosing Longhorn Village is its Life Plan model, meaning residents can access higher levels of care if needed, without having to leave the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can couples live together in independent living?

Yes! Many couples choose to live together in independent living. Because Longhorn Village is a Life Plan Community that offers the full continuum of care, if one partner needs memory care or skilled nursing, they can remain right here on the same campus and get the care they need at every stage of life.

How do I know if independent living is right for me?

If you’re looking for a social, maintenance-free lifestyle with access to luxury amenities and activities, independent living is a great choice.

How do I schedule a tour of Longhorn Village?

Interested in seeing independent living at Longhorn Village firsthand? Schedule a visit today to explore our residences, amenities and vibrant community!

Experience Independent Living at Longhorn Village

Surrounded by the stunning Texas Hill Country and with Austin at your doorstep, Longhorn Village provides the perfect setting for a vibrant, enriching retirement. Discover the Longhorn spirit and explore all that our community has to offer. Visit our Contact Us page for more information.

Featured Image: fizkes / Shutterstock

monitoring_health_check_string