Looking for Independent Living 55 and Over home for mother-in-law in surrounding area - recommendations??

She's adamant that it not be assisted living but an active, 55 and over, independent-living type place. She's also going to be coming from a house so would prefer something closer to a townhome vs. a full-fledged apartment (but only if this is doable, since she also likes the social element being part of a 55 and over community might bring). She'd also love to be close to a decent-sized city (such as Montclair), and ideally within 20-25 minutes drive max of Maplewood. Cost isn't necessarily a significant factor. We'd also love any leads on good real estate agents in the surrounding neighborhoods who might have particular insight into this sort of search. Thanks for any help!

- rj

You don't mention how old your MIL is, but you might consider Winchester Gardens - they have a full range of housing options from Independent Living through continuing care. Staying in the same community while you age in place has its benefits.

winchester gardens has independent living.

The Villas at WG are one-level townhome type units, including a one-car garage. They are very nice.

I've often noticed the sign for THE CLUB AT AUTUMN RIDGE on Liberty Avenue on the way over to 22. Seems to be a 55+ community.

Thanks for the thoughts! She's in her early 70's. We DID look at WG - her perception was that the people she saw there seemed much older, etc. (though I know they also offer independent living options). I think she'd like some place that feels more active, without the feeling that the assisted living facilities are right on the other side of the door, etc. (as admittedly practical as it might be as she gets older, etc.)

- rj

@jjp He and his wife just moved to a community near Montclair - I think they are in West Orange.

I tend to believe that walking distance to downtown Montclair would be a good place. Winchester Gardens is lovely but I find the inability to walk to restaurants, movies, and other activities to be a downside.

I don't know much about it, but heard of a place called Crane's Mill in West Caldwell.

There is an adult community called the Enclave in Livingston on South Orange Avenue

Thanks all for your thoughts... It's a tricky challenge since she's really leaning towards more of a "townhouse", but also wants the social atmosphere afforded by the 55 and over Independent Living-type places, most of which seem to be more apartment-oriented (albeit some of them much bigger, such as at the Four Seasons at Great Notch Spa and Club, which she's also looked at). I suspect the whole house thing is just what she's used to (with a backyard where she can barbecue with family, etc.), but they're also more work - I presume - as you get older... I guess we'll just keep looking but let me know if anyone has any family members with any personal experience at an independent-living-type place not too far away that they could recommend for an active senior!...

- rj (OP)

Following. Please post updates

The shore offers many possibilities which fit your mom's specifications. While your family might enjoy visiting down the shore in summer, it is farther away thenyou wanted. Monmouth County and the Red Bank area have theatre, restaurants, etc galore.