Our population is aging, baby boomers are retired or nearing retirement age. In fact, according to Statista, 1/5 of our population will be at least 65 years old by 2050, compared to just 17 percent in the year 2020. With so many people becoming old, many understand the need to consider different housing needs. Along with different housing needs, there will be an increased need for medical care.
Different Types of Housing Based on Needs
Gone are the days when senior living communities meant you had a room with a bed, TV, and bathroom. Senior living communities have many options to choose from. There are different-sized apartments, individual casitas, and townhouses, just about any size needed to meet the needs and lifestyle of its residents.
These independent senior living communities minnesota, or elsewhere, can offer basic services to individuals who are still able to maintain an independent lifestyle. Some may no longer wish to prepare every meal, so there are usually food services available that can offer delicious options. There are also numerous activities and amenities on-site so residents can enjoy resort-style living within their community.
Technology plays a significant role in enhancing the quality of care and improving the overall experience for seniors in these communities.
What to Consider When Looking for a Senior Living Community:
There are many considerations when moving to a senior living community. Here are some things to consider according to SeniorLifestyle.com.
- Location: Seniors should consider the location of the community. Is it located close to shopping, culture, dining, and activities? Or is it in a quiet, rural area? Prospective residents need to weigh the importance of location before they make a decision.
- Technology: Many communities today utilize technology to keep their residents up to date on what is happening each day. They can look at upcoming programs and activities and choose meals all on their tablet or phone.
- Consider the design and architecture: A well-designed community can impact mood, health, and well-being. A well-designed community will be bright and cheery. The individual living spaces should be warm, and welcoming with plenty of light. The design should offer plenty to do, both inside and outside.
- Healthcare: One of the great things about senior living is that they have healthcare professionals on staff at all times, should there be an emergency. Those that aren’t onsite daily do make visits regularly. These include podiatrists, dentists, and audiologists, which are common physicians needed as we age.
- Pet-friendly: One of the biggest challenges for those who move into retirement communities is the concern that they can’t bring their pets. Today, there are pet-friendly communities that cater to pets with dog parks, walking trails, and programs for you and your pet.
- Upscale dining: As our palates have become more discriminating, the dining options have greatly improved in retirement communities. If you fear cafeteria-style food, you can forget about it. There are upscale dining options that are nutritious and delicious! More options are popping up every day with snack options, simple meals like burgers and hot dogs, espresso bars, and formal meals in elegant dining rooms.
- Answering the phone: This is from personal experience. Get a place that picks up the phone when you call. Someone staffed, by a phone 24/7. There are too many reasons that make this a wise decision.
How Retirement Communities Work
- Living Options: Retirement communities offer different housing options from independent living apartments to assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing facilities. Residents can transition between levels of care as needed.
- Activities & Amenities: Communities provide various amenities like fitness centers, pools, golf courses, clubs, classes, trips, and entertainment to keep residents engaged. There are opportunities for socializing, learning, recreation, and more.
- Services & Support: Services like housekeeping, lawn care, maintenance, transportation, and on-site health facilities provide convenience and assistance to residents. Staff are available to help with tasks and care.
- Fees: A buy-in deposit or entry fee is usually required to move in along with ongoing monthly fees. Fees cover amenities, services, housing, and care costs. Some costs may be covered by long-term care insurance.
- Contracts: Residents sign a contract specifying the housing unit, services, fees, and terms for reselling the unit when moving out. The community provides housing and services for the duration of the resident’s life per contract.
- Healthcare: Higher levels of care like assisted living and nursing homes are provided either on-site or partnered with a care provider. Healthcare services are tailored to the individual’s needs.
- Community Living: Activities and events foster connections between residents. A sense of community develops by socializing with neighbors and participating in community life.
Retirement communities aim to provide senior housing, services, amenities, activities, and healthcare tailored to residents’ needs in a communal setting.
Making the Right Living Choice
There are a lot of decisions to make as we age, and an easy one should be finding wonderful senior living centers near you. Just do your research! Google, Bing, and DuckDuckGo might give you some different results for “senior living near me” separately but you may be surprised at all the options just minutes away. Always schedule a tour. The best places allow you to tour at any time, showing you that there’s nothing to hide or prepare for your visit (also another note from experience).
Conclusion
As our population ages, the demand for senior living communities will continue to grow. These communities offer a variety of living options, services, and amenities that cater to the diverse needs of older adults. Technology is playing an increasingly important role in enhancing the quality of life and care in these communities. By carefully considering factors such as location, design, healthcare, and amenities, seniors can find a community that supports their lifestyle and well-being. Making an informed decision can lead to a fulfilling and enjoyable retirement experience.
