A well-rounded life is possible at senior living, and this option is often more affordable than many think. Learn about all the options and get the facts you need to make an informed decision for your loved one.
Senior living communities provide a maintenance-free lifestyle that leaves seniors free to pursue their passions and rediscover old ones. In addition, residents benefit from the convenience of housekeeping, transportation, and meals on-site.
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Cost
Knowing the expected cost is crucial when considering senior living for a loved one. A little research can help with this, but visiting communities in person is the best way to get a feel for the costs.
Typically, a senior living community will have a base fee, including rent or mortgage, utilities, housekeeping, laundry, and meals. Care fees may then be added on top of this in bundles or levels.
The type of care required often determines the level charged, with independent living being the least expensive option and skilled nursing the most costly. Across New York, the range of senior living costs can be significant, especially regarding a Life Plan Community or CCRC.
Socialization
Loneliness and isolation can be devastating for seniors. Fortunately, most senior living communities offer many socialization opportunities that can help them connect and feel more fulfilled.
Socializing decreases feelings of loneliness, keeps the brain sharp, and reduces stress levels. It can also prevent health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and obesity.
When touring senior living options, look for one that offers many social activities and opportunities for interactions with residents and staff members. Check out their events calendar and note whether they have small-interest groups like book clubs or gardening and large-group events like holiday parties and local attractions. Also, drop in for a meal or two to see how people interact with each other.
Meals
Eating well is critical to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It helps your loved one maintain a proper nutritional balance and reduces the risk of health conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease.
Many senior living providers offer chef-prepared breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals. They are also able to cater to any dietary restrictions or food allergies.
Many senior living communities have adopted the farm-to-table movement to bring fresh, local foods and provide residents with a more sustainable dining experience. The benefits include adding new flavors and boosting immunity by introducing more vitamins and minerals to your loved ones’ diets.
Transportation
Many seniors who stop driving might feel isolated from their friends and family, but the exemplary transportation service could help them stay connected. Whether they must attend doctor appointments or group gatherings, senior transportation services provide a reliable alternative to taxis and public transit.
They also ensure that a senior can attend important events. Hopping on a shuttle to go to a lecture or a book club will keep their mind stimulated and their social ties strong.
Ask potential retirement communities about their transportation services. Often, they’ll be private or non-profit and volunteer-based. This helps to lower costs and makes them more accessible for seniors. In addition, these options may offer door-to-door transportation and are specifically designed for seniors’ safety. This way, they can be sure that their family members won’t have to worry about them getting lost or falling off the bus.
Safety
As we age, safety concerns can arise from ensuring that one’s medications are taken correctly to avoiding central falls or injuries. In a senior living community setting, these worries are alleviated by the support of peers and the structured environment.
Make sure your loved one is happy with their surroundings while choosing a retirement community. Some communities feature gardens and patios that offer a natural setting that entices residents to get out and enjoy the weather. In addition, check out the website of each residence to download brochures and images and see what other amenities are offered. Also, review the activity calendars and visit a community for a tour.
