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Many Americans are working hard in order to have the retirement they would enjoy. It takes decades to prepare (and save) for it, and as they approach the retirement age, there will be discussions, pondering, and concerns circling on how to spend their golden years.
Retirement can be an exciting transition filled with opportunities and choices. As you or your loved one decide on how to live through retirement, there will be many decisions to make such as living situations, health, and social life. There will be discussions about getting the care needed at home or in retirement communities. As this decision may be overwhelming and difficult, it is important to do proper research and assessment to find the right fit.
If you are considering or have finally decided to take the retirement community route, the next decision is choosing the right one for you or your loved one. There are many factors to consider in this decision, but first, you must fully understand what a retirement community really is.
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What is a Retirement Community?
Retirement communities or senior living communities come in many shapes and sizes and also vary in the services they could offer. It is a broad term referring to different housing options and levels of care that a senior or retiree may need. These are assisted living communities, nursing homes, and more. Though these communities are different, they are all tied by the residents they serve older adults who want to live a quality life through their retirement years.
Choosing a Retirement Community for You or Your Loved One
1. Choose the right level of care
Perhaps the most important part of deciding which retirement community to choose is knowing the level of care needed by the senior adult. This refers to the amount and forms of daily assistance the community could provide and the health care available in the community. As said above, different types of retirement communities depend primarily on the level of care they could give to their residents.
- Independent living
Independent living communities offer a vibrant community for those 62 years old and older who are looking for a more social, active, and independent environment. These provide services such as housekeeping, maintenance, and restaurant-style dining; and offer programs that encourage socialization and active lifestyle.
- Assisted living
Assisted living communities are great options for older adults who need more personal care and assistance while maintaining independence. Different from independent living, these give up-close assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs).
- Memory care
Memory care is for seniors who are living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Communities that offer memory care offer programs and services that are highly specific for those living with dementia, delivered by highly-skilled staff members.
- Skilled nursing care
For those who are recovering from injuries, acute illnesses, or in need of long-term assistance, skilled nursing care might be what they need. Skilled nursing care provides care to those in need of help with their mobility, hygiene, and personal care, or managing medication. Based on professional assessment, they could also give advanced medical assistance.
2. Decide on the location
Location is a big deciding factor in choosing a retirement community. It does not only influence the cost of living in a retirement community but the whole experience itself. Do you want to live near your family and friends? Do you prefer being closer to the beach and parks? Is the community located near a hospital and clinics?
Retirement communities in San Marcos, California, for instance, offer an affordable price given the accessibility, amenities, and neighborhood it has.
3. Choose the experience
Once you have decided on the key considerations in choosing a retirement community, then you could move on to the experience or lifestyle that you or your loved one wants to have. While looking for a community, some of the things that you should consider are:
- Amenities
- Services
- Programs
- Culture
Taking the Next Steps
Once you have pondered on these factors and decided on the retirement community, the next step is to prepare for it – physically, emotionally, and financially. There are retirement communities in San Marcos, California that offer an array of services and communities at an affordable cost, without sacrificing a quality lifestyle.
Blue Skies Homes is committed to your senior loved ones their full independence and the suitable senior care that they need. Our services include individual-centered care, assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), and management on behaviors, and medical needs, among others. Schedule a visit today and find out all our available senior care services!
