10 Best Independent Living Communities in Independence, IA

Independent Living

Independent Living Communities provide seniors with a balance between an opportunity to live an independent lifestyle and not having to concern themselves with housekeeping. Daily needs such as housekeeping and the scheduling of social activities are taken care of, which permits seniors more opportunities to live active lives as they see fit. Along with their daily needs being met, residents can enjoy the opportunity to be among peers, surrounded by others of similar ages and interests. Within the individual units, residents have access to a private living space and a full kitchen, and can even live with a companion if they prefer. While policies vary between locations, numerous residences allow cats and dogs as well. If residents decide they would like to employ the services of independent health care professionalls, they always have the option. There are an assortment of advantages and expenses to balance while deciding on an independent living community. It is important to learn if these amenities are included in your care plan: Waiting list deposit, wellness program, parking, move-in fee, laundry, transportation, initial assessment fee, and field trips. The conveniences associated with independent living include healthcare center, private rental hall, security guards, game/TV room, laundry service, beauty salon & barber shop, fitness center & swimming pool, and community activities.

Demographics and Values

Racially, the population of Independence is 0.0% mixed race, 97.7% white, 0.0% Native American, 3.0% Hispanic, 0.0% Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 0.7% black, 1.6% Asian, and 0.0% other or not specified. Based on gender, 53.2% are female and 46.8% are male. The median age of Independence is 40 years old. In terms of education, 18.5% have a college degree, 41.9% have a high-school diploma, and 4.7% have a graduate degree. Independence has a population density of 384 people per square mile. Currently, the population of Independence consists of 5,824 people and in total the Independence metro area has a population of 6,050. In Independence, 3.8% do not have health insurance, 11.4% have some form of disability, 64.9% participate in the labor force, and 10.6% are widows. In Independence, 7.2% of the population are veterans of the United States armed forces.

Cost of Living

The overall cost of care for a community is determined by the neighborhood where it is located. Monthly, the median rent in Independence is about $773 and the median home value for Independence costs around $118,841. The rent burden for Independence is around 15.1% of the average person’s monthly income.

State Information

An overview of Iowa

There are 120 hospitals and 75 health centers that service a population of 3,168,703. Mercy Hospital, St. Lukes Hospital, and And Mercy Medical Center – Cedar Rapids are among the top three highest ranked hospitals in the state. The natural beauty of Iowa is ranked 32nd in the nation. Out of a national average of 100, Iowa has a cost of living index rating of 92, a grocery index rating of 96, and a housing index rating of 80. Overall, Iowa ranks 14th in quality of life and 20th in healthcare compared to other US states.

Social demographics of the state

In Iowa, 36% of the population attend some form of religious service and there are 5,107 different congregations. The top three non-Christian denominations in the state are Jewish-<1%, Muslim-<1%, and Buddhist-<1%, with the most common Christian denominations consisting of Evangelical Protestant-28%, Mainline Protestant-30%, and Historically Black Protestant-2%. In Iowa there are 289 masonic lodges. In terms of diversity, Iowa ranks 43rd in the nation and is considered LGBTQ friendly. In Iowa, 30% of the population is over the age of 55. The median age in the state is 38. During the latest presidential election, 51% voted for the Republican candidate while 42% voted for the Democratic candidate.

State-wide weather information

The average humidity across the state is 72%. Humidity levels tend to reach their peak in the month of December at around 78%. The average monthly precipitation for the state of Iowa is around 2.93 inches. The most precipitation occurs in July with an average of 6.46 inches of precipitation a month. The average temperature in the winter falls to around 22F. The average high winter temperature is around 40F in the month of February. The average low temperature during the winter drops to around 4F in the month of January. The average temperature in the summer rises to around 72F. Over the summer months the average high temperature peaks at around 88F during the month of July. The average low summer temperature is around 55F in the month of June. On average, Iowa has an air quality index rating of around 41.2 AQI. The average air quality index rating peaks in the month of May with a rating of around 53.8 AQI. While residents of Iowa mostly enjoy pleasant conditions, it’s important to be aware of inclement weather as well, which in Iowa can include floods and earthquakes (high).

Wildlife to be found in Iowa

The state of Iowa has a diverse array of plant and animal life. Local plant life can consist of pink lady’s slipper, western beard-tongue, dryflower, and twinleaf. While venturing throughout the state, you might see animals such as the black wolf, the mountain lion, the bear, or the elk. The state animal of Iowa is the eastern goldfinch.