How To Choose A Senior Independent Living Community In Seattle
How To Choose A Senior Independent Living Community In Seattle
Senior independent living is, as HelpGuide describes it, “any housing arrangement designed exclusively for older adults,” in which residents live independently while enjoying community amenities, programming, and the peace of mind that is afforded by the presence of higher levels of care. The decision to choose Independent Living in a CCRC environment is made to avail oneself of a full calendar of events and activities, to be free from the burdens of home ownership, and to enjoy the security that comes with knowing expanded care is available if/when needed.
If you or a loved one are in the market for a senior Independent Living community, there are several factors to consider before making such an important decision. During the retirement planning process, it is important to research all the available options, tour multiple Independent Living campuses, and ask the right questions to ensure you find the place that best suits your loved one or you.
Important Independent Living factors to consider include:
- Location
- The types of residents currently living in a given community
- Dwelling types
- Safety and security
- Community staff
- Community services and amenities
- Access to leisure activities
- Access to essential stores and services
Senior Independent Living communities offer a range of services and amenities that may differ based on factors such as location, budget and levels of care. By considering these factors, you can confidently choose a senior Independent Living community that meets your needs and allows you to fully enjoy your retirement.
Last but certainly not least, when it comes to retiring at a senior Independent Living community – it’s important to choose a community that affords the safety and comfort that comes from the presence of on-site care services when/if the need arises.
What Types of Senior Independent Living are Available in Seattle?
There are a variety of dwelling options available across multiple Senior Living communities. It is important to establish a priority list of objectives when searching the Seattle Market for the right community. Dwelling options will vary in pricing based on factors such as location, views, features and furniture.
Whether you are looking for an Independent Living apartment that offers quiet-living quarters or options that are in the epicenter of the community, there is an option for you.
Common Types of Senior Living Options:
- Condominiums
- Duplexes
- One and Two Bedroom Apartments
- Studio Apartments
How Does Location Factor Into an Independent Living Community?
Location is often a top priority when looking for senior Independent Living. You will want to choose an area that offers you the setting and lifestyle in which you feel the most comfortable.
Are you looking for an Independent Living community within walking distance of restaurants, shops, trails and parks? Or, would you rather enjoy views of city lights and skyscrapers?
The neighborhood you choose can shape your senior Independent Living experience. The location in which you choose to reside may provide you with a community of like-minded people who value the same pace of life.
Green Lake, Seattle
It is also important to consider the distance from your family, friends, and institutions in your life. In Seattle, numerous neighborhoods offer senior independent living.
Downtown Seattle
If you are looking for urban living in Seattle, there are numerous options for senior independent living. Downtown Seattle offers views of skyscrapers, city life, and Puget Sound. You may also consider neighborhoods such as Central District, Belltown and Queen Anne on the outskirts of Downtown that offer city views with a suburban feel.
North Seattle
Independent living options across North Seattle offer access to urban and suburban neighborhoods, local shopping, beautiful parks and nature trails. You can find Senior Independent living in Ballard, Green Lake, Greenwood, and Northgate. These are just a few popular North Seattle neighborhoods where you might find the perfect place to retire. The further you travel outside of North Seattle, the more options you may find for independent living.
West Seattle
Known for its water views and the renowned Alki Beach, West Seattle is another neighborhood in which you can find senior independent living in suburban neighborhoods.
Senior Independent Living In Green Lake, Seattle
The Hearthstone is located in the Green Lake Neighborhood of Seattle offering a deep connection to nature. Surrounded by walking paths, stunning vistas, nearby retail, the renowned Woodland Park Zoo and best-in-class medical care, our community offers so much to current and potential residents. Our prime location is the destination for all things outdoor health and fitness, boasting a whole host of exercise opportunities including yoga, golf, cycling, tai chi, Pilates and walking.
In the Green Lake neighborhood, find local coffee shops, a variety of dining options and plentiful neighborhood attractions. Enjoy shows at The Bathhouse Theater, visit the Green Lake Public Library, stroll the Woodland Park Zoo or rent a paddle boat on Green Lake.
Living In the Green Lake neighborhood affords city life without the hustle of The City. The Hearthstone is a quick fifteen-minute walk from Roosevelt Station and is situated on major bus routes allowing quick and easy access to downtown Seattle and the “city hustle” whenever you are in the mood.
Senior Independent Living Options At The Hearthstone At Green Lake
The Hearthstone campus offers independent living in three buildings: The flagship Lakeside building, Cove East and Cove West.
Life in the Lakeside building puts you in the community’s epicenter. Living in the Coves, which are one block from the Lakeside building affords a quieter environment. Find our senior independent living apartments floor plans here.
No matter where you live in the community, The Hearthstone comes with thousands of square feet of common areas complete with a whole host of amenities.
Tour The Hearthstone community, common areas and independent living apartments to see if the campus is the right fit for you. Call us at (206) 517-2216 or complete this form.
Benefits And Amenities Offered At The Hearthstone
At The Hearthstone at Green Lake, independent living residents are afforded access to the full CCRC continuum including Assisted Living and cognitive support. No matter where you live as an independent resident at The Hearthstone, you have access to a full complement of amenities.
Amenities offered at senior independent living communities make life simpler and most importantly, more fun.
Hearthstone Amenities:
- Wellness programs
- Fitness Centers
- Art Studios
- Business Center
- Library
- Chapel
- Common Area gathering spaces
- Entertainment Venues
- Outdoor recreation
- Transportation Services
Click here to view a comprehensive list of amenities offered
Senior Independent Living At The Hearthstone At Green Lake
The Hearthstone at Green Lake is Puget Sound’s leading Continuing Care Retirement Community offering senior Independent Living along with Assisted Living and Cognitive Support. Our mission is to provide a true sense of comfort and belonging to all who join The Hearthstone community.
The campus is surrounded by walking paths, stunning vistas, nearby retail, the renowned Woodland Park Zoo and best-in-class medical care.
If you are interested in learning more about senior Independent Living in Seattle’s beloved Green Lake neighborhood, read our article 5 Reasons to Choose Senior Independent Living at The Hearthstone or call us at (206) 517-2216 or complete this form.
Frequently Asked Questions About Senior Independent Living
The decision by or on behalf of a healthy senior to choose Independent Living is made to avail oneself of a full calendar of events and activities, to simplify one’s life, to be free from the burdens of home ownership, to find true community among peers in a similar phase of life, and to position oneself for a move to Assisted Living should the need arise.
Independent Living is designed for older adults who are largely self-sufficient. Assisted Living provides support with daily activities such as medication management, dressing, hygiene, and mobility. At a CCRC like The Hearthstone, Independent Living residents have priority access to Assisted Living on the same campus if needed. Learn more in our post on Assisted Living vs. Independent Living.
The most important factors include location, dwelling types, community culture, access to levels of care, safety and security, and the amenities and programs offered. Touring more than once and speaking with current residents can be especially helpful in evaluating whether a community is the right fit.
The minimum age for Independent Living at The Hearthstone at Green Lake is sixty-two. Many residents choose to join the community well in advance of needing any additional care, which allows for more choice in apartment selection and a smoother transition into community life.
Yes. As a non-profit organization, decisions at The Hearthstone are made in the best interests of residents rather than shareholders. Funds after operating expenses are reinvested into the quality of residential life while also preparing for long-term needs and capital projects. Learn more about the difference between non-profit and for-profit retirement communities.
Independent Living vary based on a number of factors, including apartment size, floor, views, building, and remodel status. At The Hearthstone, independent living pricing is established with a one-time Entrance Fee and an ongoing Monthly Service Fee, both of which reflect the apartment selected and the full complement of amenities, programs, and CCRC services included in community life.
