Our guide to independent living apartments

What can you expect when you move to an independent living apartment (ILA)? Read why it’s a good option for people wishing to downsize in style!

Why an ILA? The retirement living industry is rapidly evolving. The purpose-built ILA, as a smaller housing option, is designed to suit the latest generation of retirees who want to live in a safe and friendly community with people of a similar age but don’t need a massive amount of space in their home. There are many other benefits of moving into an independent living apartment too.

Benefits of Independent Living Apartments

Low maintenance

Downsizing to an apartment is the perfect opportunity to reduce your to-do list when residing in a single dwelling. A home with relatively less space to clean and no need for lawn care or other outdoor maintenance, is ideal for people who want an easier, less stressful and more comfortable retirement lifestyle.

Great locations

Today’s retirees are looking for flexibility, convenience and an enhanced lifestyle, which is exactly what an ILA offers. These new-build apartments in Australia are usually in the centre of a local area (such as our new project Dux Churchill, which is in the centre of Ringwood) where everything is within easy reach. Allowing people to enjoy a well-connected neighbourhood and embrace generational diversity.

Security and safety

A multi-unit development can give added security that people can’t find in a village. Most ILA complexes are in gated communities with controlled access, 24/7 security cameras and extra fire protection. Plus, features such as single floor living, wide doorways and hallways, and fewer steps increase safety and make an ILA perfect for those retirees who just want peace of mind.

Gorgeous floorplans

Compared with regular apartments, ILAs usually have a spacious and much larger living area. They have flexible open-plan layouts that maximise natural light and more storage space. Often, a functional large balcony extends the living space to create an airy, relaxed ambience. Two and three-bedroom apartments are the most common options in ILA communities, as they provide a relaxed and comfortable living environment where seniors can live freely.

Designed for ageing in place

All senior living dwellings in Australia are designed to allow ageing in place. This means that the internal layout and features are in favour of seniors with reduced mobility to help them stay independent in their everyday lives. Furthermore, quite a few new-build ILA developments have met the latest Livable Home Design Guidelines and have obtained a certain accreditation level. Under the guidelines, minimum accessibility features are mandatory inside an apartment, such as step-free access, slip-resistant floorings, widened hallways and doors, brighter lights, bathrooms with a hobless shower recess and reinforced walls around the toilet (for installation of grab rails at a later date).

Nevertheless, accidents can still happen. So, it is common to find an emergency alarm button installed in a senior living apartment. They are usually set close to the ground in the bathroom or bedroom, so that if an accident occurs (like a fall), the resident can get prompt help.

Quality of life is a top priority for baby boomers and today’s retirement communities are responding with on-trend designs and fittings. Dux Living stays on top of key trends, adopting the most up-to-date designs in its first ILA development – Dux Churchill. Stay tuned for further updates.