by Tim Tuttle
Independent living communities are designed to provide healthy seniors with a safe and secure living environment, quality food, access to social and recreational activities, and convenient access to services such as transportation and housekeeping. Often, seniors move into an independent living apartment because they no longer need the space provided by a house, nor do they want to take care of the necessary house and/or lawn maintenance which comes from owning a home.
While apartments in independent living communities have full kitchens, the community will also serve restaurant type meals. Often the rent will include three full meals. Some communities, however, offer a specific number of meals or a specific amount of monetary credit per month, with the assumption that some of the residents’ meals will be prepared in their own apartments. Most independent living communities include housekeeping services in the rent, and many will include an in-apartment washer and dryer.
There are also Over 55 apartment complexes. Over 55 communities are like independent living communities but they typically do not have food available or housekeeping services included in the rent.
Two advantages of living in an independent living or Over 55 community are the entertainment options and social activities. Since the residents are of a similar age, the community can focus on events and activities seniors enjoy, such as live music from past eras. This also means residents will have things and experiences in common, which often lead to friendships.
Some independent living communities have in-house or outside home care providers so residents can conveniently receive assistance with personal care and daily living activities in their own apartments. Residing in an independent living community with some homecare assistance is often a good half-step toward assisted living. Many communities include independent living, assisted living, and memory care sections so that residents do not have to move from the community if they progress to the next level of care.
The cost of independent living is heavily dependent upon factors such as the apartment size, community location, and amenities provided. A reasonable estimate runs from $3,000 – $4,500.
We can introduce you to – and tour with you – independent living communities we trust to take care of you or your beloved family member.
Assisted Living Locators (ALL) South Nashville is owned by Tim Tuttle, a retired Air Force officer, the Commander of the Franklin Veterans of Foreign Wars, and a member of Franklin First United Methodist Church. Tim was inspired to open ALL – South Nashville five years ago after his mother’s experience needing care after a hospitalization. Tim’s teammate, Nancy Blankinship, is a social worker with over 20 years of experience working with seniors. Nancy’s a native Middle Tennessean who personally nursed a loved one through hospice to his passing. Tim has received accolades for his presentation to Franklin First United Methodist Church’s Adult Ministry Plus program. Please contact him at if you are interested in him providing instruction to your senior ministry program.
