You have spent your entire life working with one goal in mind: a long, easy, productive retirement. Unfortunately, your body had other ideas, and living alone is no longer feasible.
What if you didn’t have to give up your independence as you age?
Many adults of retirement age find solace in senior living communities—but don’t confuse them for nursing homes. A great community offers a range of support, allowing adults over 55 to “age in place” with the support of friendly neighbors and knowledgeable staff.
Many seniors find that these dedicated communities are the best place to lay down the burden of home ownership and retire. We’ve created this guide to help senior citizens understand what makes a senior lifestyle estate unique. We’ll include all the information you need to decide whether a senior living community is right for your needs.
Read on to explore this enticing lifestyle option in detail.
What Is a Senior Living Community?
It can be difficult to define “senior living community” because no two facilities are identical. That’s why it’s so important to do your research early. Many communities admit adults as young as 55, allowing them to transition through levels of care in a place they choose.
The first level of senior living is independent living. On the most basic level, moving into an independent living unit is like moving into an apartment. You’ll have your own dedicated space in proximity to the community’s hub of activities.
As you age and your needs change, you may require assisted living accommodations. You might receive help with tasks of daily living, including medical care. Residents receive assistance from an internal staff who they know and trust.
The goal of these communities is always independence, even in an assisted living environment. You will have access to the help you need to remain as independent as possible.
The key to a long, happy life is socialization. You’ll enjoy the company of others who grew up as part of your generation. You’ll engage in activities and enjoy meals with individuals who share your memories, interests, and life experiences.
The staff at the community will plan a calendar full of activities for residents. These might include local day trips, exercise classes, spiritual groups, art enrichment activities, concerts and performances, and game nights. You won’t need to go far to enjoy a rich, fulfilling social life.
What Does It Mean to “Age in Place?”
Many aging adults continue to live at home as they age. This arrangement works well until they have their first fall, medical emergency, or age-related mental health crisis. At that point, they bounce from one facility to another, often without their input.
Naturally, most people would prefer to avoid that upheaval. It’s better to maintain some agency over where you live and what happens to you there. That’s why many seniors elect to “age in place.”
Essentially, this means moving into a senior living community with multiple levels of care. They may offer independent living, assisted living, rehabilitation, and full-time care. You can often access every level of care while living in a comfortable, private unit.
The routine, staff, and surroundings won’t need to change as your care needs evolve. There will be less upheaval and more familiarity.
The Benefits of Senior Living
When you move into a senior living community, you’ll gain access to a full range of activities only steps away from your front door.
For example, communities such as Dimensions Senior Living offer a packed daily calendar of events. Most residents start their morning by attending an exercise class, spend the afternoon engaging in spiritual activities, and round out the evening with a social event. The schedule includes choices, from intellectual activities to purely social hang-outs with like-minded residents.
Many adults find that their daily schedule is as packed and exciting as it has ever been! This is a great option for anyone who feels like they “don’t know what to do with themselves” after retirement. You’ll never have to figure out how to spend your day when the options are right there for you.
Spouses Stick Together
Many couples feel a great sense of relief upon moving into a senior living community. If one spouse undergoes a medical emergency, they will not separate you. This peace of mind is often reason enough to make the transition.
Embrace Green Space
At a genuine community, you won’t spend your days in a claustrophobic day room. Many facilities have miles of hiking trails, on-site gardens, and plenty of courtyards and greenspace where you can explore and reflect.
Eat Like a King
Many senior living communities also offer full-service dining. You can enjoy three meals a day prepared by professional chefs. They keep dietary restrictions in mind, and the menu is never stale.
Ultimate Convenience
Many communities also offer personal care services on-site, such as a hair salon. You won’t need to leave home to attend medical appointments or receive acute care in the case of an emergency. Best of all, you will have access to housekeeping services, so you can focus on yourself instead of your chores.
Start Living With Senior Living
Do you really want to spend your retirement mowing the lawn or opening the door for an endless parade of revolving, ever-changing health aides? When you move into a senior living estate, you’ll be joining a genuine community. You’ll spend your best years in comfort, surrounded by friendly faces, engaging activities, and beautiful surroundings.
Are you looking for more news that can help make your life easier? Check out the rest of the blog for more posts featuring our best lifestyle suggestions and recommendations. You’ll find something to simplify life, no matter your age!