Thinking about living arrangements as you or a loved one age can be uncomfortable, but preparation now can translate into a much easier time down the road.

People are living -- and living quite well -- longer than ever, and the market for retirement communities has grown to reflect this, meaning you're likely to find an option that suits your needs.

But while you might have plenty of options to choose from when doing research, Scott Sprandel at Saxony Village Retirement Community in Cape Girardeau says the choice isn't one you should ultimately make on your own. Health concerns are obviously a top priority and should only be evaluated by a doctor.

"One part that people don't think about would be that a doctor would have to decide whether someone can live independently or not," he explains.

That decision will determine whether someone needs to be in an assisted living environment or an independent living one. While the former entails care and help with daily routines, independent living allows people to have their own space among peers, along with resources if they need them.

Ruth Pautler, an independent living resident at Chateau Girardeau, shares a laugh with friends during Ladies Tea on May 8. (Glenn Landberg)

Kim Wilson, director of marketing at Chateau Girardeau, says independent living closely resembles autonomous life, just a little easier.

"[It] works with your independence, not against it," she says. "Our residents are completely in charge of their schedule -- come and go as they please, entertain friends in their homes and choose what they like to do from the variety of amenities we offer."

Studio apartments, one- or two-bedroom apartments, even duplexes are available, depending on a person -- or persons' -- needs.

"Our offerings are anywhere past 600 square feet up to over a thousand," Sprandel says. "We help with the cooking if they need it and take care of housekeeping and their utility bills, help them with taxes. We just take care of some of the stuff that people don't want to do."

That way, residents have more time for enjoying "the best years." Sprandel says that, like any stage of life, being with peers is an invaluable asset for finding satisfaction in a senior living community.

"Socialization is a big thing that you get out of this," he says.

Adds Wilson, "[Residents] have every opportunity to cultivate new relationships and pursue new interests."

For people who don't need any assistance but still desire socialization, there's a growing trend of subdivisions exclusively for senior residents. The subdivisions function exactly like other neighborhoods, but require homeowners to be over a certain age. One such community, called Ramsey Branch, has been granted approval to begin building in Jackson.

And while some people might be hesitant about moving into a retirement community, it's important not to wait too long.

"[Some people] had been talking about it and talking about [moving into independent living space], and they finally pull the trigger, but they're just not able to live on their own without assistance anymore," Sprandel says.

Expenses are also an important consideration, as financing senior housing typically differs from that of medical needs people may be accustomed to.

"Expenses are something that people need to keep in mind," Sprandel says, but adds that most people end up wishing they had made the change sooner. "Instead of living in a house by yourself, you are surrounded by people you can visit with when you want to," he says. "In looking back, people say, 'Whoa, I wish we would have done this earlier.'"