When people think about moving into an independent living community, they often focus on the practical benefits: maintenance-free living, dining options, wellness spaces, and social activities. But at Christian Living Communities and the upcoming Mullen Residences at the Highlands, independent living is about more than convenience. It is about citizenship.
So, what does the citizenship model in an independent living community actually mean? At Mullen Residences, citizenship will mean residents are not just living in the community; they are helping shape it. From influencing dining options and guiding activities, to residents having a voice and a meaningful role in creating the culture around them.
That culture of citizenship will be foundational when Mullen Residences opens in 2029, creating a community where connection, contribution, and belonging are part of everyday life.
What Does Citizenship Mean In An Independent Living Community?
Citizenship in an independent living community means active participation in community life. Rather than being passive recipients of services, residents become contributors, decision-makers, and collaborators.
At Mullen Residences, this philosophy is well-established in the CLC Citizenship Model of Community Life®: an age-positive approach that recognizes every older adult brings gifts, experience, and perspective that strengthen the community. This model shifts senior living away from outdated assumptions about aging and toward a more empowering view: aging as a time for continued purpose and influence.
In practical terms, citizenship model means:
- Having input into community amenities
- Helping shape social and wellness programming
- Providing feedback on dining and menu offerings
- Serving on a resident council
- Building relationships that support neighbors and community life
Research from the National Institute on Aging shows that social connection and purpose support better emotional and physical well-being as people age. Staying engaged is essential—especially for older adults.
How Will Community Life Be Shaped At Mullen Residences?
One of the most exciting aspects of Mullen Residences is that the community is being built around the people who will call it home.
Residents Enjoy Thoughtfully Designed Amenities That Support Everyday Living
Amenities play an important role in creating a comfortable and engaging lifestyle. At Mullen Residences, shared spaces and amenities are being designed to support wellness, social connection, personal interests, and lifelong learning. From gathering areas to wellness-focused spaces, every aspect of the community is intended to enhance residents’ daily experiences and nurture a sense of belonging.
Residents Can Participate In Activities That Create Connections
A vibrant community offers opportunities for residents to stay active, connected, and involved. Mullen Residences plans to provide a variety of activities and events designed to support physical, intellectual, spiritual, and social well-being. Programming may include:
- Fitness classes
- Educational workshops
- Faith-based gatherings
- Volunteer opportunities
- Arts and cultural events
Programs evolve as resident interests evolve, helping keep community life vibrant and relevant.
Residents Provide Input On Menu Options
Dining is one of the most social parts of community life. At Mullen Residences, resident feedback will help guide menu planning. That means meals can reflect preferences, traditions, wellness goals, and seasonal interests. It is another example of how citizenship turns everyday experiences into shared decisions.
Why Does A Resident Council Matter In The Citizenship Model?
A resident council is one of the clearest expressions of the citizenship model in an independent living community. A resident council is a formal group of residents who represent community interests, share ideas, and help guide decisions. It provides a structured way for residents to communicate with leadership and advocate for improvements.
At Mullen Residences, a resident council will help strengthen transparency, collaboration, and shared ownership of community life. The reason this is so important is that communities thrive when residents feel heard. According to a decades-long study by Harvard Health Publishing, maintaining social engagement and a sense of purpose contributes to better health outcomes and greater life satisfaction as we age.
What Makes The Citizenship Model of Community Life® Different From Traditional Senior Living?
Traditional senior living models often focus on care delivery. Citizenship adds something more: partnership. Instead of asking, “What services do residents need?” citizenship asks, “How do residents want to live, contribute, and connect?” That difference changes everything. At Mullen Residences, residents will not simply move into a pre-designed lifestyle. They will help create it.
This philosophy aligns with the mission of Christian Living Communities, which believes aging should be honored, celebrated, and filled with opportunities for growth and belonging.
Discover Citizenship At Mullen Residences
Finding the right independent living community goes beyond floor plans and amenities. It’s about joining a community where relationships deepen, and resident voices help shape daily life. At Mullen Residences at the Highlands, citizenship will be at the heart of that experience.
Learn more about Mullen Residences at the Highlands and explore how our resident-centered approach will create opportunities for connection, engagement, and belonging. Join us at our next complimentary Lunch and Learn.
