Exploring Retirement Living Options: What Works Best for You?
Based on recently released information, more than 11,000 people reach retirement age in America every day. If you’re at or near that point, you may be thinking about how and where to spend your golden years. Retirement opens up a whole new world of opportunities for many people, and a vast range options lie ahead of you.
In terms of retirement living alone, the possibilities are numerous. From aging in place to options for assisted living and beyond, you have several choices. Each one offers its own level of benefits based on people’s unique needs. Consider the following prospects to help you find the one that’s likely to work best for you.
Aging in Place
A growing number of retirees want to age in place. They feel that staying in the home they’ve become accustomed to and maintaining their independence is the best option. That works for some, especially those who don’t anticipate facing any chronic conditions or disabilities as they grow older. If you find yourself needing extra assistance over time, in-home caregivers, home health nurses, and other professionals can provide it. If you find yourself needing extra assistance over time, in-home care by caregivers, home health nurses, and other professionals can provide it. That being said, you’ll still be responsible for taking care of your home, getting to doctors’ appointments, grocery shopping, and other tasks.
Independent Living
From there, there are independent living communities. They’re designed for healthy, active seniors who don’t need extra medical care or help with the activities of daily living and who have no serious mobility issues. In these communities, residents maintain their independence, but they also have access to an array of extra services and amenities. Those include communal dining opportunities, social events, and on-site fitness centers to name a few. These communities likewise offer transportation, home maintenance, and housekeeping services for their residents.
Assisted Living
Next on the list are assisted living communities. They allow residents to retain as much of their independence as possible while also offering an extra level of care. They’re designed for people with mobility issues and those who need help with everyday activities, such as bathing, dressing, and taking their medications. Caregivers are constantly on hand, and residents are monitored to ensure their health and safety. As is the case with independent living communities, a variety of services and amenities is available to residents.
Memory Care
Memory care communities are designed for seniors who suffer from dementia and Alzheimer’s. They provide the gradually increasing levels of care residents need as these conditions progress. They also offer various therapies to foster cognitive function and slow the progression of these conditions as much as possible. Socialization and engagement activities are provided as well. These communities generally offer care plans that are tailored to residents’ individual needs.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities
If you know ahead of time that your needs will significantly evolve over the years, or you have reason to think it’s a possibility, a continuing care retirement community may be a better option. Also known as life plan communities, their staff and caregivers tailor residents’ care plans as their needs change. This option is essentially a blend of aging in place and enjoying the benefits of a retirement community. It can prevent you from having to move from one community to another as you grow older.
Choosing the Best Retirement Community for You
No two people’s needs are exactly the same, and retirement communities have been developed with that in mind. Different communities are available to cater to different requirements. You can choose to age in place, move to an independent or assisted living community, or seek memory care for dementia. On the other hand, you can opt for a community that evolves along with your needs. Either way, consider your situation and how it may change over time to help you pick the best option for you.
