What is independent living?

At The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, we believe that ageing should not be seen as a barrier to living life to its fullest. Our philosophy centres on the idea that later life can be a time of vibrancy, choice, and independence, if the right support systems are in place.

Independent living is at the heart of our vision, offering retirees the opportunity to remain in control of their lives, while benefiting from services and a community designed to enhance their overall wellbeing.

As a leading not-for-profit provider of retirement villages, we understand the complexities of ageing and the importance of creating spaces where people feel empowered to maintain their autonomy while still having access to the support they need. For us, independent living is about fostering environments where dignity, choice, and a high quality of life are always prioritised.

Defining ‘independent living’

In our view, independent living means providing older adults with the freedom to live as they choose, within a framework of safety, care, and support. This means empowering our residents to maintain as much control over their daily lives as possible. Whether it’s managing their health, making decisions, or pursuing hobbies. However, we also recognise that everyone’s needs and desires differ. Therefore, flexibility and personalised support are essential to ensuring that everyone can thrive.

For ExtraCare, independent living goes beyond simply providing a roof over someone’s head, it’s about creating a lifestyle that allows for choice, opportunity, and connection. Our model encompasses not only the physical environment but also the social and emotional aspects of life in later years.

Key features of independent living in ExtraCare communities

1. Housing that supports independence

Independent living at ExtraCare begins with thoughtfully designed homes that are both comfortable and practical. Our retirement properties range from apartments, to bungalows and cottages, all with the option to add on design elements that promote safety, mobility, and comfort.

We are proud to be pioneers in embracing technology that actively supports ageing in place. With a highly skilled innovation team, multiple research projects, and an award-winning innovation apartment at our Solihull Retirement Village, the charity is continuously investing in technology to assist our residents. It’s these features that help prevent accidents and enable residents to live as independently as possible for as long as possible.

Check out the below video to find out more about our innovation apartment and the smart devices we offer to assist with healthy ageing and independent living.

2. Personalised support services

While living independently is a priority, we recognise that each individual may require different levels of assistance over time. This is where our award-winning care services come into play.

We offer a variety of on-site services at our integrated retirement communities (IRC’s), such as home care assistance, personal care, and healthcare services, which can be tailored to meet residents’ needs.

It is important to note that as we are an independent living charity, if a resident reaches the point of no longer being able to live independently, we will come to a decision with their families and loved ones that an alternative living arrangement may be needed. This also goes for the pre moving in assessment we carry out of all residents to ensure they can live independently.

Our amazing team of in-house Wellbeing Advisors consistently promote the health and wellbeing of ExtraCare’s residents. This is achieved by carrying out annual assessments, health promotion sessions and drop-in sessions.

The Wellbeing Advisors across the locations are able to do the following:

Take, record and monitor blood pressure
Take random blood sugars (blood sample taken from the finger)
Take random cholesterol (blood sample taken from the finger)
Measure height, weight and body mass index
Take a temperature
Screen urine samples
Provide advice re dietary intake
Provide advice re chronic health conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), heart disease, asthma and diabetes.
Our staff can also assist with Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, dementia, diabetes, falls prevention, support following bereavement, mental health awareness and more.

3. Vibrant community life

Social engagement is central to maintaining wellbeing, particularly in later life. At ExtraCare, our retirement villages are designed to promote community interaction as much or as little as you’d like to help combat loneliness.

Our villages offer a wealth of social activities, from exercise classes and gardening clubs to arts and crafts workshops and organised outings. Residents can connect with others through group events, volunteering opportunities, or simply by enjoying each other’s company in shared spaces like lounges, bistros and gardens. Socialising is a core component of independent living, and our communities are built to facilitate a sense of belonging and friendship.

4. Safety and security

In March 2023 we conducted research studies and the results supported the concept that when we age, safety becomes a paramount concern for many. Therefore, at ExtraCare we believe safety and security are fundamental components of independent living.

Our villages are equipped with:

Professional staff and security measures
Access control
Community support and social engagement
Maintenance and accessibility

To summarise, independent living at ExtraCare offers a vast set of benefits.

1. Choice and control: Our residents are empowered to make decisions about their daily lives, from managing their care to selecting activities that align with their interests.

2. Community and belonging: The opportunity to engage with peers and form meaningful connections is invaluable. Our villages foster a sense of belonging, combating loneliness and providing ample opportunities for socialisation.

3. Peace of mind: Knowing that support is readily available if needed provides reassurance to both residents and their families. Our flexible care options allow individuals to age in place, with care being tailored to their evolving needs.

4. Quality of life: The combination of beautiful homes, vibrant communities, and comprehensive services ensures that our residents can live a fulfilling and active life as they age.

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What is independent living?

Defining ‘independent living’

Key features of independent living in ExtraCare communities

Learn more about life in an ExtraCare village here!