When Should I Move to a Retirement Community?
The decision to choose senior living is a highly personal one. When thinking about a move but uncertain what age to move into a retirement community, it’s essential to take into account the variety of benefits community living provides. Freedom from home maintenance and yardwork; protection of your financial legacy; and opportunities for dining, socialization and recreation can make for more enjoyable independent living sooner rather than later.
No More Financial What-Ifs
With preplanned living expenses, refundability options and predetermined care fees, the costs of senior living offer financial predictability that makes it easier to manage assets for the long-term.
All-Inclusive Living
Homeowners know that the expense of owning and maintaining a home doesn’t go away even after the mortgage is paid off. Senior living communities provide a maintenance-free lifestyle as part of the monthly package. Appliance servicing and repair, housekeeping, unstopping a sink or changing a light bulb — virtually everything is taken care of by community staff. There are no unexpected repair or replacement expenses that would normally impact a household budget.
Asset Protection
Most communities offer residents the choice of a refundable entrance payment as an alternative to the traditional, declining balance contract. Depending on the entrance payment’s structure, it may be fully or partially refundable. This allows the resident to preserve their assets if they leave the community or bequeath them to their estate.
Senior Health Care
Choosing to age at home will mean bringing in service providers if health care needs ever change. In 2019, the median cost for a home health aide in the Nashville area was $4,195 a month. The national average cost for in-home skilled nursing care to assist with medication and other needs was $87.50 per visit. Being admitted to assisted living or skilled nursing would average $4,150 to $6,852 a month, on top of the costs of maintaining a home. [Source: Genworth Cost of Care Survey]
In a Life Care community such as The Heritage at Brentwood®, residents are protected from the rising cost of care, and the devastating financial impact of a health crisis. They receive lifelong unlimited days of senior health care on campus at virtually no increase in their monthly fee. They’re protected from unpredictable market rates, with the cost of care much lower than what they would pay if they moved directly from their home.
Stay in Control of the Future
When deciding what age to move to a retirement community, consider the impact a move will have on family members. They can worry less about the future when they know you have the full support of a dedicated staff and a full continuum of care if ever needed. With a smart plan already in place, there’s no burden on children or other family members to make decisions if new health challenges arise.
Dining: A Delicious Perk
With a dining plan included in the monthly fee, residents are able to eat out — and eat well — when they don’t feel like cooking at home. As an example, The Heritage offers two dining venues where chef-prepared meals are served restaurant-style for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Meals are made from fresh, healthy ingredients, with the specific nutritional needs of seniors in mind. Dietitians on staff also help individuals with special dietary needs.
Nurture Connections, Even Now
Isolation is a word that is becoming increasingly familiar. Unfortunately, in this day and age, isolation at home keeps older adults physically safe, but it takes a toll on physical, emotional and mental health. Even in these challenging times, senior living communities help residents forge meaningful connections with neighbors and loved ones. They’re dedicated to the health and wellness of their senior residents, and provide social events, fitness classes and other activities that support overall well-being.
Continue an Active Lifestyle
With a fully equipped fitness center just around the corner, it’s easier to get to a regular workout. Communities provide varied options for fitness classes at different skill levels, and their professional instructors can design a workout plan that keeps you motivated to reach your goals. Well-located communities such as The Heritage are set near parks, greenways, walking and cycling paths, encouraging an active outdoor lifestyle.
If you’re still wondering about the best age to move to independent living, you’re very welcome to contact the friendly sales counselors at The Heritage. They’ll be happy to explain more about the lifestyle and luxury services and amenities offered.
