Founded in 1769 by French-Canadian fur trader Louis Blanchette, St. Charles is one of the oldest cities on the Missouri River. It served as the first Missouri state capital from 1821 to 1826. The city’s historic Main Street, lined with brick-paved streets and well-preserved 19th-century buildings, is a testament to its storied past.
The historic downtown area is a major draw, offering a unique shopping and dining experience with numerous boutiques, antique shops, cafes, and restaurants. The area frequently hosts community events, festivals, and fairs, providing a lively and engaging atmosphere. The city is home to the Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum, which commemorates the famous expedition that began in St. Charles. The Foundry Art Centre, located in a restored train car factory, offers art exhibitions, studios, and cultural events. Lindenwood University, a prominent educational institution, adds to the city’s cultural and intellectual vibrancy.
St. Charles is known for its strong sense of community and hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the popular Christmas Traditions festival, which transforms Main Street into a holiday wonderland. Other events, such as Oktoberfest and the Missouri River Irish Fest, celebrate the city’s diverse heritage and foster a sense of camaraderie among residents.
Are you a senior interested in living independently while also having amenities, services and a sense of community? Or maybe you have aging parents and want to understand options besides nursing homes for their next housing move.
Independent senior living communities like Avalon Park meet the needs of many older adults looking to live actively with some assistance available.
Unlike nursing facilities that provide medical care, independent senior communities offer residential housing plus services, with residents still largely responsible for managing their daily routines.
These neighborhoods or condo communities house residents aged 55+ only. They focus on providing rich social activities tailored to seniors and favorable amenities like golf, pools and clubhouses.
Light housekeeping is sometimes offered, but there is no personal care. You purchase or rent an apartment or single-family home. Costs run from $100,000 to $500,000+ to buy, with additional homeowner association fees. Rentals typically range from $1,000 to $3,000 monthly.
CCRCs allow aging in place by providing a continuum of senior housing. Campuses include everything from independent living homes and apartments to assisted living services to skilled nursing facilities. Depending on physical abilities, you can progress through different levels of care with minimal disruption.
CCRCs require a substantial entry fee that may be partially or fully refundable. Average nationwide entry fees range from $108,000 for a studio apartment to $420,000+ for a villa. Even after paying the entry fee, ongoing monthly costs for rent or maintenance also apply. Higher levels of care also involve additional fees.
These multi-unit residential complexes cater just to senior renters, typically ages 55+. Most resemble traditional apartments, where you pay rental rates monthly with no large buy-in fee. They may offer some convenience services or activities, but seniors handle most of their own day-to-day care.
Rents commonly fall between $1,000 to $3,300 per month depending on location, unit size, amenities included and level of luxury.
When evaluating housing communities, consider their included features against your lifestyle preferences and budget.
For example:
Look closely at all financial obligations too – not just quoted rent rates or real estate listing prices. Monthly fees on top of housing costs often apply for access to services and amenities. You may pay a large one-time entry or membership fee upfront, especially for CCRCs.
Be sure to read contracts carefully to calculate total carrying costs over time and avoid surprise charges. Consult with a financial advisor to project budgets that account for future healthcare needs that could arise. With careful planning using all the information available, finding an independent living option that fits with your evolving priorities is very achievable.
