Finding the Right Senior Living Option for Your Loved Ones

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Retirement has changed over time. These days, seniors are living longer than ever before, and they’re remaining active for much longer than their predecessors. Their views on what their retirement years should look like are growing more diverse as well. With all that being the case, senior living options have branched out well beyond those that were available just a couple of decades ago. At this point, several types of communities are available to meet an increasingly varied range of needs and expectations.

Each type of senior living community has its own distinct benefits, but not all of them are right for everyone. If you’re looking for the best option for your loved ones, several points should be considered. Keeping them in mind will help you find a community where your loved ones will be safe, healthy, and happy. 

Types of Senior Living Communities

One of the main factors to consider is the types of senior living community available to your loved ones. Some communities offer a single type of retirement living whereas others, like Belmont Village, offer multiple options in a single setting. Independent living communities cater to seniors who want an active, stress-free lifestyle but need little to no assistance with daily activities. Assisted living communities offer freedom while also providing extra help with activities of daily living. They tailor their care to residents’ specific needs and can offer varying levels of support. 

Memory care communities are designed for people who suffer from Alzheimer’s and dementia. They offer support and services to slow cognitive and physical decline while also keeping residents safe, active, and social. Continuing care retirement communities adjust the care and support they provide as residents’ needs evolve. If your loved one is in the early stages of dementia or another degenerative condition but doesn’t yet need full-time care, a CCRC may be the best fit. 

Services and Amenities

It’s also important to look into the services and amenities different communities have to offer. Consider the type of care and support your loved one needs and weigh those against the types of communities mentioned above. From there, research the specific support individual communities provide. Consider on-site amenities, like fitness centers, spas, salons, green spaces, and game rooms as well as nearby amenities, like shops, restaurants, and attractions. 

Think about the activities different communities plan for their residents too, such as fitness, crafting, and art classes; personal enrichment courses; and educational seminars. Try to find a community with options that dovetail with your loved ones’ interests. Social activities and events are important as well. They can keep your loved ones from feeling lonely and isolated along with many other benefits. 

Location

Location is likewise important. Like many people, you may want to keep your loved ones close. In some cases, though, it’s best to look beyond your immediate vicinity. Finding a senior living community that’s a little farther away than you planned but that offers all the services and amenities your loved one needs is a better option than choosing one that’s closer but doesn’t quite live up to your loved one’s expectations. 

Choosing the Right Senior Living Option for Your Loved Ones

You’ll need to consider several factors when choosing a senior living option for your loved ones. Think about the types of communities and their services. Then, narrow down your choices to individual communities in the category that would best serve your loved ones. Consider the activities and amenities available in different communities as well. Though location is important, don’t be tempted to choose the closest community to you if it doesn’t meet your loved ones’ needs.