Retirement communities differ significantly from those of the past. With a focus on improving the quality of residents’ lives, retirement communities these days offer a whole suite of care, services, and amenities. Although they are all-inclusive, you would still want to choose a retirement community that fits your preferences and supports your desired way of life. Since it is a place you will retire in, choosing senior living is a necessary process. Start early and take the time to look into retirement communities so that you can help your loved one make the best of their retirement. With the sheer number of communities, you may feel overwhelmed by the choices you have. To help you along, here are three essential factors to pay attention to when choosing a senior living community.
Access to Personalized Care
Look for a retirement community that can meet your current and future needs. Even if you do not need some of the services right now, knowing that they are readily available in your community gives you confidence that you will always be well-cared for. Age-related changes may cause daily living activities to become challenging, leading to increased risks when aging at home. Communities with Senior Assisted Living options can assist with personal grooming, eating, or medication administration. Look for communities that will provide a suitable level of support to enable their residents to continue to live independently. Ensure that the community can tailor and review its care plans to meet the changing needs of its residents.
Access to Healthy Eating
Inadequate nutrition in older adults can weaken immune systems and cause serious health issues. Some older adults find it a chore to plan and prepare meals that they don’t eat nutritiously. Some older adults seek solace in food and turn to emotional overeating. Look for communities that provide variety in nutrition and taste, such as local favorites and specialty dishes. Some communities like TerraBella Salisbury provide table-side dining so residents can focus on sharing stories and interacting over meals. Mealtimes are more than just serving food in senior living; it is also a center for social interaction. When you take a tour, observe how residents get along while enjoying a meal together.
Access to Amenities
If it is part of your plan to enjoy the golden years, find out about the amenities and programs available at the retirement community. Services such as housekeeping and maintenance, concierge, and transportation can provide great conveniences for you or your loved one. Imagine the ease of living in a clean and comfortable apartment without the hassle of doing household chores or maintenance work or having a friendly team member handle the logistics of making dinner reservations at a local restaurant and booking tickets to a show. Perhaps even having a transportation service that takes you to medical appointments or visiting the local attractions. Communities that keep their residents engaged and active plan a calendar full of activities and events. Residents can choose what they love to do and may even be inspired to start a new hobby or interest. Such activities and events keep you or your loved one physically and cognitively active while providing opportunities for social interaction to keep loneliness at bay.
