As
you enter the age of retirement, you might find your current home no
longer fits your needs. Many seniors grow out of their homes for a
number of reasons. You might find that you don't enjoy cleaning a
large house, or you may not like maintaining a yard, or living
farther away from health care centers or community amenities.
However,
the idea of moving from a home that you've lived in for many years
may also seem daunting. Should you move? Consider some of the
benefits that can come from moving to a senior living community as
you make your decision.
Reduced
Labor
If
you are the type of person who enjoys working in your yard, then you
might be happy to continue mowing lawns and trimming bushes around
your family home. However, if you are not as able to complete yard
work, our senior communities provide grounds services so you don't
have to worry about doing it yourself.
This
doesn't mean that you won't have green spaces to enjoy. Our
communities have planned recreation areas, walking trails, and grassy
places for all residents to enjoy. If you like to garden, then you
may even be able to join a local community garden nearby that
provides water and raised beds to make it more comfortable for you to
tend your plants.
Other
aspects of home labor are also included in community living. For
example, layouts are usually a single story, so you don't need to go
up and down stairs. In addition, you won't have to vacuum stairs,
wash exterior windows, or make roof repairs that require standing on
a ladder.
Increased
Accessibility
Most
of our Senior apartments are built with accessibility in mind. You
might not need a fully accessible design right now, but planning
ahead can make a transition smoother.
Other
features that improve accessibility in a senior apartment include
consistent flooring, grab bars and walk-in tubs, ramps for getting in
and out, and room to accommodate live-in medical equipment, such as a
bed with a lift.
Budget
Friendly
A
paid-off family home may seem like the best financial option, but
staying in a family home instead of downsizing to live in a senior
community can have hidden costs. For example, you'll still need to
pay property taxes and utility costs, and utilities for a family home
will be much higher than a small energy efficient apartment.
In
addition to taxes and utilities, you'll still need to pay for
insurance and maintenance for your home. Some larger home
emergencies, such as a plumbing or HVAC failure, can pulverize your
retirement budget, especially if you must live on a fixed income. You
also will need to pay to adapt your home as your medical needs
change.
If
you’re still paying on your home’s mortgage, then moving might be
the best financial option. Our senior living situations rent for a
fixed percentage of your income, making them more affordable than
other rentals. Utilities and other costs, such as home maintenance,
can often be included in the rent.
Increased
Social Experiences
Social
experiences are very important for your health as you get older.
Loneliness is a major health concern for seniors, which is why rich
social experiences can be an essential part of your lifestyle as you
start your retirement.
If
you do not have visiting family close by, then you can join in with
senior living community events. Many communities have weekly game
nights, book clubs, group exercise, and church groups. Some may have
potlucks and dancing with other residents, allowing you to make
friends and share experiences together.
Senior-Specific
Amenities
Finally,
our senior communities offer amenities that other living locations
might not offer. For example, some places provide transportation so
you don't have to worry about getting to the doctor, the local
recreation center, or the farmer's market if you don't have the means
to drive.
Your
community might also give grocery buying and food preparation
assistance, and the property management will be able to connect you
with city, state, and federal resources for assistance, including
medical care and housing subsidies.
If
you are uncertain about whether or not a senior community is right
for you, then schedule a visit to several different facilities in
your area. This can help you decide. For more information, contact us
at Robert
Cottingham Property Management Co
.
