There are many advantages to moving to a retirement community. Likewise, there are several aspects to consider when selecting the community you choose to move to. When it comes to retirement communities, there are a wide range of diverse options. You may find it helpful to make a list of the qualities and amenities you hope to find when searching for the community best suited for you.
Retirement communities are sometimes referred to as active adult communities. This is an option you might want to consider if you are looking for a community that offers golfing, swimming, an exercise facility, hiking or biking trails and various other recreational activities.
Independent living communities generally have small private homes such as patio homes that are located in a cluster or community style setting. There are often independent apartment options incorporated into the community housing environment. This type of community might appeal to you if you are looking for low-maintenance living in an area where you can mingle with people of a similar age and with similar interests.
Assisted living communities offer both independence and the availability of staff to assist you with such things as the administration of medicine, meals, housekeeping and transportation to medical appointments. They also provide activities and social events for residents living in the apartments.
Continuing care retirement communities offer a variety of housing options that range from independent living to assisted living to a nursing home level of care. This is an option to give serious consideration to if you and/or your spouse has medical issues that may require extra care as time goes by.
Once you have determined the type of community you want to move to, there are still other factors involved in the decision-making process. You will need to explore the expense and determine which community fits your financial situation. It’s important to have a thorough understanding of fees involved and how (or if) your insurance factors into a community’s plan.
It’s always a good idea to meet some of the people living in the community to get an idea of how happy they are there and to explore how well you will fit into that specific environment.
Most likely, you will want to select a community that is close to your family and friends in order to maintain contact with them. You will also need to consider the location of the community in regard to where your doctor’s office is located.
Taking time to access your options before you need them will ensure a more enjoyable and healthy retirement community experience.