Many retirees ask, “how will I know when it’s time to move into a senior living community?” Several factors, including changes in lifestyle, mobility, and sociability, may point you in that direction. If you notice one or more of these signs, it may be the right time to consider moving into senior living.
Difficulty With Home Maintenance
The earliest sign that it may be time to consider moving occurs when your home becomes too difficult to maintain. If you find it hard to keep up with cleaning, repairs, and remodeling, consider looking into assisted living near you.
Struggles with daily chores often indicate the need for more manageable living arrangements. Most seniors consider moving because they no longer have the time, energy, or inclination to maintain a home—and senior living communities take care of everything for them.
Poor Financial Choices
If your friend or loved one has suddenly started overspending or has stopped paying bills, it’s time to evaluate their living situation. In a senior community, the elderly person in your life will have fewer worries about finances, and you’ll be able to watch them more closely.
Loss of Mobility
If your mobility is affected by arthritis, injury, or illness, keep that factor in mind when contemplating a move into a retirement community. Those with walkers, for instance, would be well served in places with no stairs and ample first-floor access. Wheelchair users, on the other hand, should look for rooms with ramps and hallways with elevator access.
Spending Too Much Time Alone
A common sign that it’s time to move into a senior living community is spending a lot of time alone. While this sign alone is troubling enough, it becomes even more worrisome when combined with other factors. If your friends and family live far away or you feel lonely, isolated, and depressed, a move into a senior community may provide the human interaction you need.
Difficulty Preparing Meals
As we age, cooking and cleaning the kitchen can become a real hassle. Many seniors lack the energy to shop for groceries, prepare meals, and clean up afterward. If you’ve grown weary of meal prep, consider relocating to a senior living community that offers communal dining and light housekeeping.
You Don’t Feel Safe at Home
When seniors feel unsafe at home, they should consider moving into assisted living. Older people with health concerns need constant access to medical care, while home invasions and burglaries are a top concern for those who live in crime-ridden neighborhoods. For these seniors, a move into a retirement community may be the shortest path to a safer, more secure life.
A Need for Coordinated Care
Before moving into senior communities, many people experience health issues that have them in and out of the hospital. Along with the physical and emotional toll of these trips, scheduling regular medical appointments can quickly become overwhelming. Assisted living and senior communities can coordinate care, simplifying residents’ routines and improving their health.
In Summary
Aging and retirement are significant life changes, and it’s important to be prepared. By looking for these factors, considering your health, and asking your family for advice and help, you’ll know when the time is right to make the move. If you’d like to know more about our community, call or click for a tour.