47 Independent Living Communities in Chicago, Illinois

There are 47 independent living communities in Chicago, IL and several independent living communities nearby. The average cost of independent living in Chicago, IL is $999 per month.

The median cost of independent living in Chicago for a single-occupancy apartment is $999/month (SeniorHomes.com - 2015). This monthly cost typically includes rent, utilities, dining, housekeeping and transportation.

With more than 7,000 restaurants in the city, residents of a Chicago independent living community will never become bored with the available dining options. From elegant fine dining and ethnic cuisine to the much-loved Chicago-style hot dog (a beef frankfurter on a poppy seed bun loaded with toppings), there is a choice for every taste preference. After enjoying a satisfying meal, seniors make want to attend a live performance at The Second City or the Victory Gardens theaters. Alternatively, the musical offerings of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra or the Civic Opera House are sure to please as well. Dance lovers can attend performances by the Joffrey Ballet while sports lovers will definitely want to cheer on the Chicago Cubs at famous Wrigley Field, the Chicago White Sox, the Chicago Bears, the Chicago Blackhawks or the Chicago Bulls. The list of things to do in Chicago never seems to end. To name only a few more attractions, there are the Lincoln Park Zoo, the Shedd Aquarium in Grant Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Navy Pier and the Willis Tower Skydeck.

The city of Chicago operates the Senior Services Area Agency on Aging to meet the needs of the city’s senior population. Six Regional Senior Centers provide fitness and recreation programs as well as assessment and information services. Residents of a Chicago independent living community can obtain a photo identification card that will let them attend any of the six Senior Centers; some programs are offered for a small fee and some are free. Once a member of the centers, residents can use the state-of-the-art fitness equipment or attend classes in strength training, yoga, tai chi, balance and zumba. The Golden Diners Program offers seniors the opportunity to socialize and make new friends while sharing a hot and nutritious lunch.

Residents of a Chicago independent living community can be reassured that their health needs, whatever they may be, will be met in this city. The University of Chicago Medicine offers a geriatric medicine program geared to the special needs of individuals sixty-five years of age and older. The program includes the health management of senior cancer patients and survivors, frailty issues and a dedicated memory center. All care is managed through a patient’s own geriatrician, thus offering the stability and familiarity of a primary care doctor while also taking advantage of the expertise of specialists. The Geriatrics Division at the Northwestern Memorial Hospital, along with the Northwestern University’s Buehler Center on Aging, offers evaluation and treatment for older adults. The hospital’s Geriatric Health Ministry offers health counseling, assessment and educational programs through local clergy and church members.

Public transit is run by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). It is the second largest system of public transportation in the country and basically consists of two types of service: buses and the ‘L’, a subway line that takes its name from when the system began and was “elevated.” Lines are designated by color and the red and blue lines operate 24 hours a day. Both O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport can be accessed by the CTA. Residents of a Chicago independent living community can take advantage of a reduced fare program for seniors. The appeal of Chicago is impressive. Offering a vast selection of attractions, restaurants, sports teams, cultural events, a beautiful waterfront, as well as easy transportation and specialized medical care, Chicago is clearly an excellent place to call home.

Senior Homes has an extensive directory of senior living options, with care and living providers across the United States.