Independent Living for Seniors and Assisted Living Facilities in Baltimore County, Maryland

Baltimore County is the third-most populous county in the state and is part of the Baltimore metropolitan area. The county stretches from Virginia northward to Boston and offers excellent opportunities for senior living. Independent living in Baltimore County is any housing designed exclusively for older adults. Typically, the age groups are either 55 and older or 65 and older, and residents live independently. The type of housing ranges, such as apartment-style living, condos, retirement homes, or continuing care retirement communities. Some of the communities are designed for active seniors and offer amenities, activities, and various services. The housing is typically friendlier for aging adults, being more compact, with easier navigation and no maintenance or yard work to worry about. Independent living is aimed at older adults who need little or no assistance with activities of daily living. Most retirees will choose to live close to the amenities or services they need. For example, this could include shopping malls, healthcare, walking paths, public transit, food stores, or churches.

When searching for independent living, it is a good idea to have a budget in mind. The cost varies depending on the services provided. Retirement communities offer numerous amenities, such as dining services, recreation, transportation, and social events. Continuing care retirement homes provide everything within one location. These housing arrangements also help residents make the transition to a higher level of care when needed, such as assisted living facilities. The Maryland Department of Health, Office of Health Care Quality licenses three types of assisted living programs, which are based on the level of care. One of the first steps taken when searching for assisted living is to determine the level of care needed. Also, the family should ensure the facility is properly licensed, well maintained, and even well-staffed. The purpose of most assisted living facilities is to help residents maintain their independence. Also, these facilities provide the necessary help for the activities of daily life.

Benefits of Retirement Living in Maryland

Maryland is a beautiful state to retire in and is an excellent place for active seniors. Residents have access to great skiing, sailing, and hiking. There are nearly 4000 miles of shoreline, and the state of Maryland touches three significant bodies of water. The hundreds of lakes and dozens of rivers make it an excellent location for seniors who take advantage of the outdoors. There is also a mild climate in the state with four distinct seasons to enjoy. There is often a perfect balance when it comes to weather within the state. Along with this, it is a sports lover’s dream with access to many professional teams. Financially the state is relatively tax-friendly towards retirees. Social Security income is not taxed, yet withdrawal from retirement accounts are partially taxed. Any type of wage is taxed at standard rates, and the marginal state tax rate is 4.75%. Also, public pension income is partially taxed, and private pension income is fully taxed.

List of Senior Living Communities in Baltimore County, Maryland