In recent years, there has been a growing trend toward assisted living facilities that offer residents greater independence. In fact, according to a study conducted by AARP, nearly half of seniors prefer assisted living over continuing to live at home. And while some people fear losing their privacy, others enjoy having help around the house. For example, it allows those who are no longer able to take care of themselves to focus on things that matter most to them — such as family, friends, hobbies, and volunteering.
Here are four reasons to make the move sooner rather than waiting until you’re older.
Moving When You Are Healthy Makes for an Easier Transition Period
Many seniors face the daunting task of moving into an assisted living facility when they are in bad health. However, moving to an independent living community while still feeling healthy can make the transition easier.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that between 2014-2017, ED visits doubled among those aged 60 and over. This increase in ED visits is due to many factors including increased life expectancy, chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, and medications like blood thinners. While it might seem logical to wait until you are sick to make the decision to move, doing so could actually put you at greater risk of hospitalization, readmission, and death.
According to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), about 40% of people age 65+ live alone. If you don’t want to go through the process of finding an apartment or home, consider moving to assisted living where you’ll receive the care you need to remain safe and comfortable.
Take Advantage of Opportunities Available in the Community
Another great thing about senior living is the opportunity to participate in recreational activities. There are many different options to choose from such as bowling, billiards, bingo, card games, dancing, and even sports leagues. Many senior living communities also host special events throughout the week. Some examples include trivia nights, movie screenings, and book clubs.
There Is Minimal Home Maintenance
Home maintenance can be a hassle, especially if you’re trying to do it yourself. But there are ways around that. For instance, you don’t have to worry much about taking care of a home & property while you live in a senior housing community.
You’ll receive help from trained professionals who know how to take care of everything from routine housekeeping to emergency repairs. They’ll even keep your property safe and secure 24 hours a day.
In addition, you won’t have to worry about those pesky little things like yard work or pool cleaning. Instead, you can focus on enjoying life and having fun.
A Senior Living Community Can Cost Less Than a Nursing Home
If you’ve been considering moving to a nursing home, you may be surprised to learn that an assisted living community costs less than a nursing home. In fact, according to AARP, the average cost of a private room in a nursing home is $3,500 per month. On the other hand, the average monthly rate for a private room in an assisted living community is only $2,000.
Assisted living facilities offer more services than just basic care. These include:
• Meals prepared by skilled chefs
• Personalized daily schedules
• Social activities
• Transportation
• Laundry service
• Housekeeping
• Medication management
• Care coordination
• Exercise classes
• Health assessments
• Dementia/memory support
• Activities designed to promote independence
You Gain Independence
If you want to spend your days doing something fun, such as playing golf, painting, gardening, reading, volunteering, or cooking, you’ll no longer be limited by the hours you can work or the places you can go. At least, you won’t be limited by those things unless you want to be. You’ll still be able to enjoy all the comforts of home, but with added assistance when needed.
Choose the Best Community for You
The Gardens at Oasis is proud to be an independently owned and operated community with home-grown folks who care about you and getting to know you. The Gardens is a great place to retire, relax and really thrive. Give us a call today and let us show you our vibrant and caring community!
