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Lasting friendships. Healthy lifestyle. Shared laughter. Relaxing environment. Are these what come to mind when you think of a retirement community? It should be. Contrary to what is usually portrayed in mainstream media and old narratives, retirement communities are places where seniors thrive, enjoy a dynamic lifestyle, and get the opportunity to live out their golden years happily.
If you are one of the millions of Americans who are hoping to retire soon, you are probably thinking about the living situation. Are you going to stay in your current home or move into a retirement community? The answer is yours. But before you come up with a decision, make sure to get as much information as you can about retirement communities and the options you have.
What is a Retirement Community?
Moving into a retirement community or a senior living community is a huge decision that seniors and families do not take lightly, nor should they. Their decisions will affect finances, quality of life, relationships, health, and longevity.
Retirement communities build in residents a sense of belongingness and peace of mind, as they cater to seniors who are relishing their newfound freedom from stress, homeownership, housekeeping, isolation and loneliness, and never-ending to-do lists. Retirement communities are committed to providing a home-like environment where they belong to a larger and dynamic community life.
Sometimes people think that all retirement communities are the same. In reality, there are many kinds of senior living options, all with their own features. Here is a quick run-down:
- Independent living facilities are for seniors who do not need medical care or daily living assistance.
- Nursing homes are for seniors who need extensive medical care
- Assisted living facilities are for those who do not need extensive care, such as in nursing homes, but need assistance with activities for daily living (ADLs).
- Continuing care facilities provide a hybrid of care services, from independent living to nursing home care, to provide for all the needs of their residents.
How Much Does It Cost?
Pricing options will often vary when you make a retirement decision. It will mostly depend on the size of the unit, available amenities and services, and location. Different types of retirement communities that offer more in-depth care usually come with a bit of a higher price tag as well – but it will all be worth it when you have peace of mind.
The median monthly cost of independent living in the United States is $2,552 in 2018, while the average in California is at $2,814 per month. Meanwhile, assisted living communities in California are moderately priced at $5,000 to $5,250 per month. Nursing homes in California average at $9,794 in 2021. Lastly, for continuing care facilities, the average initial payment is $329,000 and a monthly cost of $2,000 to $4,000 a month.
To help pay for these costs, government assistance programs are available for seniors and retirees. Many seniors also tap into their home equity or insurance for funds, or simply get help from in-house financing programs. You can also secure your finances by actively searching for communities that fit your criteria and budget. You can start looking for retirement communities in San Marcos for more accessible and affordable senior living options.
Have Freedom and Peace of Mind
All of these amenities and services add up to the unparalleled freedom, independence, and peace of mind for seniors and their families. Residents can always expect that their apartments are cleaned, their health maintained and improved, and their needs are being met. This peace of mind gives them the opportunity and freedom to explore new things and invest in themselves.
Retirement communities are designed to meet the needs of seniors and their families, giving them peace of mind and security. Choosing the right community has the power to make the retirement years, the best years of their life.
Explore retirement communities in San Marcos to learn more about their programs, needs, and capacities.
Blue Skies Homes is committed to provide your senior loved one their full independence and the suitable senior care that they need. Our services include individual-centered care, assistance on activities of daily living (ADLs), management on behaviors, medical needs, among others. Schedule a visit today and find out all our available senior care services!
