The decision to move into a senior living community isn’t always easy. There are many factors to consider, and it’s normal to have a million questions running through your mind. Some older adults are excited about moving into a community with others their age and participating in all the senior living activities.
Others, in contrast, are hesitant to leave their family home and fear losing their independence.
Types of Senior Living Communities
No matter where you sit in your decision, it’s important to unpack some of the outdated ideas that people often hold about senior living communities. It’s easier to figure out if it’s the right time to move when you fully understand the options!
For starters, personalized living experiences are similar to traditional independent living. They attract residents who are active and independent yet want the convenience of amenities like housekeeping, wellness programs, and onsite activities.
Similarly, assisted living residents can still manage their day-to-day schedule and spend their time as they please, but with access to personal assistance. And finally, memory care communities welcome those experiencing memory conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer’s. The environment is created with the well-being of residents in mind with welcoming, open spaces and caring staff.
Seeing the Signs: When to Move into a Senior Community
Every person has their own reasons for moving to a senior living community. However, many older adults share the same concerns and motivations for taking the leap:
You Want More Freedom
Not everyone who moves needs more assistance. Many people are looking for a simpler lifestyle, fewer home maintenance chores to take care of, and new friends their own age. Downsizing from the family home also makes traveling and enjoying life easier.
You Want More Social Opportunities
Remaining independent in your home is a worthy goal, but sometimes independence leads to isolation. Communities for older adults offer fun senior living activities and opportunities to meet others who share your same hobbies or interests. Moving may be the answer if you’re craving a prosperous social life.
You Don’t Feel Safe
Changes in your health or feeling unsafe in your home are some of the best reasons to consider a move. Living in a community where medical or personal assistance is available 24 hours a day provides a profound sense of security that can be hard to replicate at home.
You Need Extra Help
Taking care of a household—and yourself—is a lot of work. Suppose you need assistance with personal grooming, medication management, or running errands like grocery shopping. In that case, moving may be the best option.
Community residents have the care they need when they need it. You’ll get assistance without the stress of hiring people to come into your home and without someone hovering over you all the time. You’ll also have access to senior living activities that address personal needs, such as occupational therapy.
You Don’t Want Your Children to Worry
One thing most parents have in common is that they don’t want their grown children to worry about their living situation. Moving to an adult community helps everyone feel at ease. That easy access to friends, nutritious meals, healthcare, and fun senior living activities is what your loved ones want for you. They want you to be happy! The time may also come when you need the extra security of assisted living or respite care. In that case, you’ll already be part of a community that’s ready to provide it.
Are You Ready to Make the Move?
Speak with your children, friends, and doctor as a first step. There are many benefits to living in an adult community that they can provide insight for. You can also reach out to our team at Vineyard Senior Living to schedule a tour with the team. There’s nothing quite like seeing the space in person. Once you do your homework, you may even wonder why you didn’t make the decision earlier!
For more information about the community options available to you at Vineyard Senior Living, explore our website and contact us today.