Why Do Some Move to a Senior Community?
Why Do Some Move to a Senior Community?
It is said that “there’s no place like home!” For many seniors, remaining in their home is of utmost importance. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to help make that goal a reality. Why then, do some seniors make the decision to move to a senior community?Although moving to a senior living community can be difficult and emotional, there are times when this is the perfect solution. Common reasons for moving include a desire to be closer to adult children, loneliness, safety risks in the home, or cost. Let’s look at each one in more detail.With children going off to college and accepting jobs outside of the state where their parents live, seniors now find themselves leaning on friends for support. As they age, friends may no longer be able to help and adult children often worry about their parents. It’s not uncommon for a senior to move to be closer to family—to see grandchildren, for support, and perhaps, to return to a town where they used to live.Some seniors find that remaining in the home where they’ve lived for years is an ideal solution. The castle they’ve loved and where they’ve raised children holds many memories. However, sometimes they notice the “mote”—they may feel trapped, especially if the senior no longer drives. Visits and outings with friends decline, getting rides is too difficult or expensive and suddenly, the senior is left feeling isolated and lonely. Moving to a senior community can result in more companionship and the opportunity to once again participate in activities with others and to have friends surrounding them for meals, rather than always eating alone.Safety issues, often stairs, is another reason some seniors are finding themselves in a position of moving. Companies can come in and help modify the home to make it safer but depending on the specific circumstances, that may be too expensive an option. Falls are a common threat to a senior’s independence so if a senior stays at home, consider having a professional do an assessment to determine what safety improvements can be made. Sometimes, moving to a one level community with easy access to amenities may be the answer and increase the feeling of independence.A final reason some seniors choose to move to a senior community is to reduce the cost of care. While in-home care companies can be more affordable when a few hours of care is needed, for those who need a significant amount of help, a senior community is more affordable. Also, for those with dementia, it’s impossible to schedule when help may be needed so having access to care at all times is necessary. Although the care is not provided in a one-on-one setting, there is access to care 24/7 and often fits better within a senior’s budget.So, if you are in a position where you need to make a decision for yourself or a parent about moving to a senior community, where do you start?Given the scope of options, it’s important to think about your objectives, needs and preferences when comparing communities. It’s a good idea to work with a professional like Choice Connections who can help you navigate and evaluate the options, often at no cost.Written by, Lisa Hollier, CSA® (Certified Senior Advisor) and President, Choice Connections of Virginia—a FREE senior housing consulting service. We invite you to explore how we can help you find the “best fit” retirement community in Richmond and the Peninsula! Call us today at 804.364.0123 or 757.778.2772 or visit our website at www.ChoiceConnectionsVA.com.