New report says independent Living housing is a key to addressing several societal challenges
“The Independent Living Advantage” released today by EngAge BC
November 2, 2022 (Burnaby, BC) – A new report titled The Independent Living Advantage released today argues that a wider adoption of seniors housing can help society address some of its biggest challenges, such as housing affordability and climate change. The paper explores the many choices older adults must make around housing and services and cites research and expert opinion to explain how congregate living models can improve quality of life for residents.
“Independent living (IL) communities have proven benefits for people living in them,” says Terry Lake, CEO, EngAge BC are Providers Association. “IL offers residents opportunities to maintain their physical and mental health and grow vital social connections that keep them happier and active. We know that people who are isolated from family and neighbours suffer from declining health and increasing probability of cognitive decline.
“The Independent Living Advantage helps to shift the conversation from aging in place, to supporting older adults to age in the right place.”
Developed in collaboration with leading experts from the seniors living sector, the paper provides a comprehensive overview of British Columbia’s unique and flourishing independent living landscape. It also explores the many health and quality of life benefits which can be attributed to a housing and hospitality model and demonstrates the important role independent living can play to help seniors “age in place.”
“The independent living model can improve quality of life, while supporting seniors to stay healthier for longer, taking pressure off of our straining health care system,” says Lake. “By taking actions to ‘right-size’ their housing needs during their retirement years, housing well-suited to growing families can be made available too.”
The Independent Living Advantage paper was produced by EngAge BC and is available at www.engageseniors.ca.
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MEDIA CONTACT
Jamie Lozano
Media & Communications Specialist
jamie@bccare.ca
604-736-4233 ext 236
About EngAge BC:
EngAge BC is an operating arm of BC Care Providers Association that supports members providing private pay home health care, assisted living, independent living services throughout B.C.
About Independent Living:
Independent living is a good option for seniors who are confident and comfortable living alone, but who don’t want to worry about things like home maintenance, housekeeping, or cooking.
Independent living homes often include hospitality services such as meals, housekeeping, laundry and recreation activities.