Communities for seniors exist in a variety of forms and sizes. Some offer active retirement lifestyles, while others, like a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), include independent living, assisted living and nursing homes all on one property. Visit a community to see if its vibe and culture feel right. You can sample meals, meet neighbors and attend group events.
Dining
Baby boomers grew up with dinner parties at family events and restaurants, and they expect that atmosphere to remain in senior living communities. They want various menu options, including regional specialties, familiar favorites, and healthy upscale choices. Many CCRCs offer themed parties that spotlight an artist, era or fashion style. A well-planned art exhibition or fashion show is a fun way to get people together and may spark a new interest in the arts among residents. Count on your loved one to enjoy their favorite snacks, including a cup of fresh-brewed coffee and their brand of cookies. Visit an online website to be able to find the right senior communities.
Apartments
A senior living community offers a comfortable, convenient lifestyle for older adults. It’s a place where they can get social with friends, participate in activities and leave behind costly home repairs, yard maintenance and meal-prepping. As you tour a community, look for apartments designed to accommodate future challenges like steps and accessibility. Check for features like grab bars, easy-access showers, and plenty of natural light to help your loved one’s eyes. Senior apartments range from studios to suites that allow them to personalize their space. If your loved one loves their garden, consider a community with landscaped gardens and outdoor spaces for walks and enjoying the sun. They may also enjoy an activity room with a pool, games and more.
Staff
A vibrant senior living community is full of dedicated and passionate staff members ready to help residents with anything they need. They will be happy to assist with various tasks such as scheduling appointments, making dinner reservations, helping with shopping and other day-to-day activities. Beyond the daily routine, some communities have special programs encouraging seniors to stay active and socialize with their peers. For example, they may host musical performances or educational classes to expand one’s knowledge base. Other communities offer seasonal excursions and partnerships with community service organizations to give back. And they also celebrate important personal milestones like birthdays and anniversaries.
Security
Safety is a key consideration when evaluating senior living communities. Regulations vary by state. Still, senior living homes should have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, a clear fire escape plan and procedure, and fire sprinkler systems. Buildings should also have flat thresholds, ramps and handrails in hallways to help reduce the risk of falls — a leading cause of injury for seniors. Personal emergency call systems and buttons make it easy to get help when needed.
In addition, community staff, associates and visitors should be screened for proper identification when entering the premises. It helps monitor who is on the property and who is going where – particularly important during a pandemic. Some providers also have armed or unarmed security guards who patrol the grounds to offer next-level protection for residents.
Activities
There are numerous senior living options depending on the level of care required. Seniors with the financial means can opt for a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). These communities offer independent and assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing facilities. CCRCs require a sizable entry fee, but they can help seniors age in place. It is a great option for people who want to stay active and maintain their independence, as they can move between different levels of care over time. A vibrant senior living community offers various indoor and outdoor activities to entertain residents. They can join their friends for a movie night or sign up to attend a local craft show or farmer’s market. They can also participate in group exercise classes or try their hand at a new hobby, like dancing.
Comments are closed.