Many people think about moving into a senior living community long before they decide to do it.
Often it’s because they don’t want to leave the comforts of home, or they worry about being in unfamiliar surroundings. When these folks finally make the move, they often wonder: “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”
If you're considering such a decision, there’s no better time than the present to do your research. Below are some things to keep in mind.
Location, Location, Location
Your overall surroundings are important. Do you want a rural setting, or would you prefer to be closer to town? Maybe both? Are the communities you are considering near schools, sports facilities, or busy roads? If so, think about whether traffic noise and congestion might be bothersome.
Ask whether transportation is available for residents to go to the grocery store or other activities. Some communities have buses for these kinds of outings, which is extremely helpful for people who no longer drive (or choose not to).
What About Floor Plans?
Do you prefer a ranch-style home or a 55+ apartment? How many bedrooms would you like? Is having an updated kitchen, patio, or lots of natural light important to you? Seek out senior living communities with many options so that you can be selective.
Your Future In A Senior Living Community
Some senior living communities are considered “continuing care retirement communities,” which means they also offer independent living, assisted living, short and long-term nursing care. Typically, residents of these communities will have priority access to these services if the need ever arises.
How Will You Stay Active?
A good senior living community will offer a wide variety of opportunities for staying active mentally and socially. Request a copy of the community’s monthly activity calendar to see what’s available.
Think about it: do you enjoy golfing, horseback riding, swimming, and walking? Or perhaps arts and crafts, board games, and woodshop classes are more your speed.
What about opportunities to grow spiritually? Ask about church services, Bible studies, prayer groups, and the like. And don’t forget volunteer activities -- everything from providing homework help for local school children to serving at a food bank to helping out at the front desk.
All of these types of activities can contribute to your overall well being.
How’s the Food at the Senior Living Community?
Be sure to eat a meal at any senior living community you are seriously considering. Nutrition is important, but so is flavor! If you can find a community with a chef who enjoys recreating restaurant meals, catering to residents’ dietary needs, and coming up with delicious surprises, you’ve hit the jackpot!
Find All This and More at an Otterbein SeniorLife Community
Otterbein SeniorLife Communities offer endless outlets for your energies, the opportunity to make new friends, and the ability to enjoy a lively, active community in your retirement.
Otterbein SeniorLife also has an easy-to-read guide on planning and paying for independent living. This free three-step planning guide will help you narrow in on the type of independent living community that meets your interest, needs, and affordability.
