FAQ: Independent Living

Q. What is independent living?

A. Independent living at John Knox Village is just that...living independently. Our Independent Living options are perfect for those who are looking to trade the responsibility of home maintenance for a range of social, educational and leisure activities. Many of our residents continue to be actively involved in the community and many spend significant time traveling, volunteering and engaging in family activities (with the assurance of knowing that someone is looking after their homes in their absence). We provide transportation, planned activities and routine maintenance of your home and yard so you can enjoy more leisure time. And, of course, as part of a continuing care retirement community, you will enjoy a sense of security that comes from knowing who will care for you, where you will be cared for, and how that care will be paid for, all while remaining in a familiar environment. It is that assurance of physical, emotional and financial security that makes Independent Living at John Knox Village the perfect setting for older adults who value their independence, yet recognize that a well-developed support system provides peace of mind, and the freedom to pursue life's pleasures.

Q. Does this mean I’ll have to go from living in my own house to a tiny efficiency apartment?

A. No! At John Knox Village you’ll be able to choose a home to meet your needs. We know that many of today’s retirees are looking for larger retirement living spaces, while some are delighted to “downsize” so they have only a few rooms to maintain. Right now, we have more than 1,500 homes with more than 70 different floor plans from which to choose. So you can choose from an apartment, garden cottage, duplex, single-family home or villa. Our options range from single-family homes to duplexes to one-bedroom apartments. Our Independent Living homes range from 300 square feet to more than 1,900 square feet. Each place is unique, to fit our residents’ tastes and personalities. That’s why residents tell us, “There’s something here for everyone.”

Q. Will I have my own kitchen?

A. Yes. All of our Independent Living homes have their own kitchens. Whether you choose to use your kitchen is your own choice! In addition to your own home cooking, you’ll have three on-campus restaurants to choose from with flexible dining hours, as well as an ice cream parlor when your sweet tooth needs to be satisfied. And when you’re in the mood to go “out” for dinner, the Lee’s Summit community has nearly 100 restaurants to satisfy whatever you’re hungry for.

Q. What are the qualifications for Independent Living?

A. Independent Living is for seniors who:

• are able to take care of themselves.
• are healthy.
• can communicate with doctors and caregivers by themselves, or with the help of family or friends, but without the help of trained, onsite staff.
• want to live independently.
• prefer to live among their peers.
• desire the security to be found in a seniors-only community.
• no longer want to maintain a home.
• are able to manage their bowel and bladder functions.

Q. Can I bring my own furniture from home?

A. Absolutely! We want you to make your new home to feel like home. Bring your own furniture that you’ve lived with for years, or furnish your new home with new pieces as you begin your new life. Whether you choose to bring belongings filled with old memories or create a home in which to create new memories, your home needs to feel like you belong there.

Q. Can my grandchildren and family members visit?

A. John Knox Village is your home and your guests are welcome. Your guests are also welcome to use our recreational facilities and participate in activities while visiting. Guest rooms are also available for friends and relatives of Village residents, and for prospective residents. Contact the Information Center at 816-251-8000 to reserve a room. Of course, your guests are your responsibility, so we ask that visits be handled responsibly and with respect for the other residents of this community.

Q. May I bring a pet to live with me?

A. Pets are welcome to live with our Independent Living residents. We recognize that pets can be excellent friends and companions and we know they can add a special quality to lives of their owners. Each pet is subject to size restrictions and must be registered with Village management, and pet ownership is subject to compliance with village regulations.

Q. May I bring my car?

A. Cars are not necessary at John Knox Village, because such a wide variety of transportation options are available as part of our services. However, most people who drive do bring their cars, and many couples find they can easily get along with one car, instead of two.

Q. Will I have access to computers?

A. Yes. You are more than welcome to bring your own computer to your new home on our campus. If you don’t have one of your own, John Knox Village has a Computer Center with a variety of opportunities for residents who wish to use or learn about computers. The Center offers Internet access and e-mail service and our computers are equipped with software for word processing, home finance, greeting card creation and much more.

Q. I want to learn more!

A. To learn more about Independent Living at John Knox Village, visit Independent Living, or click here.

We hope this answers some of your questions, and invite you to visit and discover John Knox Village for yourself. We look forward to seeing you.

For information, or to arrange a private tour, call (816) 251-8000 or toll-free
(800) 892-5669.