When considering whether to spend retirement at home or make the move to independent living there are several aspects to include in the decision-making process. Before you make your choice, here are some simple questions that can help make the right decision from the start about independent living retirement communities.
How physically healthy are you?
Life in independent living retirement communities is active, so one of the most important aspects to consider is your overall physical health. Independent living is exactly what it sounds like — living completely independently — so health problems may not make independent living retirement communities the best option.
For example, if you have a chronic illness or have suffered an injury that requires daily assistance from others, independent living communities are not a good fit. Another concern arises when you have problems getting around on your own and tending to your own care. Whether you need help getting out of bed in the morning, or with dressing, showering or other personal hygiene. you may want to remain at home and receive help from family or caregivers or move to assisted living where a care plan is crafted to provide exactly what you need when you need it.
On the other hand, if you are healthy and active and are looking for a lifestyle that relieves you of all the burdens of living at home but with the comforts and luxuries you desire, independent living may be the perfect choice. Find out more about independent living retirement communities in our blog, “The Benefits of Living in an Independent Living Community.”
Download our free Guide to Independent Living to learn more.
How is your cognitive health?
Similarly, mental health should also be a deciding factor because independent living retirement communities are not designed for those with cognitive decline. This does not mean that losing the car keys once in a while or forgetting to return a call or email make you ineligible. In fact, normal forgetfulness, which can happen to anyone, is not considered cognitive impairment.
According to the National Institute on Aging article, “What is Dementia? Symptoms, Types and Diagnosis” signs of abnormal cognitive impairment like dementia include not only memory loss, but also problems thinking and reasoning. It may begin with a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment and never get worse but it may also evolve over time into dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Depending on the level of cognitive impairment, other choices may include assisted living or memory care, each of which can be assessed with a medical professional to determine the best fit.
Do you prefer an active lifestyle?
One of the greatest assets of independent living retirement communities is the emphasis on an active and fulfilling lifestyle, both physically and mentally. Modern luxury senior living retirement communities are often compared to resorts because they offer so many options for healthy vigorous seniors. Among these amenities are state-of-the-art fitness centers, yoga and dance studios, pools and water fitness classes, raised-bed gardens, and other options for staying fit. Residents can also get mental stimulation in the theater or activity room, by joining a special interest club, or just spending time in their own private home alone or with friends and family. Still not sure? Read our blog, “7 Reasons Why a Retirement Community Beats Living at Home!”
Will you be traveling?
Another excellent reason many seniors have for joining independent living retirement communities is travel. Maybe the plan includes more short trips to visit family, or it’s time to take that long-waited voyage to other countries, or perhaps you prefer to spend summer or winter in another state in the family cottage or condo. No matter how often you travel or how long you are gone, you can rest assured senior living retirement communities take care to keep your home safe and secure.
Safety and security also extend beyond housesitting so seniors always know they are never alone in the event of an accident or emergency, something families also appreciate for their loved ones.
At Sonrisa Senior Living we put emphasis on independence and offer diverse housing options, amenities and services that are second to none among luxury independent living retirement communities. Contact us today to find out more and schedule your tour! Download our free Guide to Independent Living to learn more.
