Your Life, Your Way: Embracing Autonomy in Senior Living

Let’s debunk a common myth: Aging doesn’t mean giving up control. In fact, one of the most empowering parts of growing older is holding on to your autonomy—the freedom to make your own choices and live life on your terms.

Whether you’re living independently or receiving more advanced care, your ability to make daily choices directly impacts your confidence, self-worth and happiness. At Cottage Grove Place, we believe in the importance of autonomy. It’s not just a concept; autonomy is a core value that shapes how we care for and support residents living at our community.

Autonomy Importance for Older Adults

We may encounter physical or health-related changes that require support as we age; however, needing assistance should never mean losing your voice in how you live. One study found that when people feel a sense of autonomy, they’re better at managing their emotions and making healthy choices, leading to better overall well-being. It’s a great reminder that having control over your decisions does make a difference, especially during times of illness or stress.

Other research shows that resident-centered care greatly improves health care quality and outcomes, especially when it respects a person’s autonomy. When people feel heard and involved in their care, trust builds between them and their providers, leading to better overall experiences.

Autonomy is more than independence. It’s the freedom to make meaningful decisions:

• What do I want to eat today?
• How do I want to spend my day?
• What group or class do I want to join this week?
• Do I want solitude or social time right now?

The ability to answer these questions on your terms contributes to a powerful sense of purpose and control.

Importance of Autonomy in Health Care

At Cottage Grove Place, we recognize the importance of autonomy. Your choices matter, regardless of where you are on our continuum of care—independent living, assisted living, memory care or skilled nursing.

We support residents with personalized care that empowers them to make decisions whenever possible without ever limiting freedom—whether it’s participating in an activity, choosing a favorite meal or deciding how to structure their day.

In our independent living apartments, residents enjoy a vibrant, maintenance-free lifestyle with a calendar full of engaging events, educational programs and recreational opportunities. Assisted living or skilled nursing aims to preserve as much independence as possible while providing residents the care they need.

A Community That Supports Your Choices

When Patricia’s family searched for the right place for her grandparents, the decision wasn’t easy. “Picking a retirement center is hard,” she said. “We had to evaluate the benefits of community life, and Cottage Grove Place was by far the best option. The caring staff, amazing management team and all the activities made it the clear choice.”

That sense of community, support and abundance of choice sets Cottage Grove Place apart. Residents can decide what their daily rhythm looks like. Want a quiet morning followed by an afternoon bridge game? Prefer a fitness class over a book club? Or maybe you’d rather stroll our landscaped grounds, then meet friends for happy hour? The choice is always yours.

From delicious dining options and concierge services to volunteer opportunities and lifelong learning, there’s no shortage of ways to stay active, social and engaged. Autonomy importance in retirement is about more than preserving your independence; it’s about enhancing it.

Your Life, Your Way … In Your Happy Place

One unique aspect that sets Cottage Grove Place apart from other senior living communities is LifeCare®. This approach protects your finances and allows you to transition seamlessly through levels of care if your needs change without ever having to leave the community you love.

That means the importance of autonomy in health care continues, no matter what support you may need down the road. You’ll still be in familiar surroundings, cared for by team members who know you and respect your preferences. This continuity provides both comfort and control for you and your loved ones.

At Cottage Grove Place, we want to support your lifestyle, not change it. Your preferences, routines and interests matter, and we’ll always respect your autonomy.

Contact us today to learn more about how retirement at Cottage Grove Place puts you in control of your future—and how our variety of activities, amenities and levels of care help you live the life you choose.