We all want to maintain our independence as we age, but we need some help doing it. Independent living is a great solution for those wanting to maintain their independence, yet receive assistance when need be. Keep reading below to learn tips on when to make the transition to assisted living, how to choose the right senior living community, and how to cope with your transition.
So, how do you choose the right assisted living?
When to Move Into Senior Living
You should consider independent living housing options when you find the maintenance of your home overwhelming. In addition, if you feel isolated from family and friends, or lacking mobility, senior living can be a great choice. Furthermore, don’t just consider the present, consider the future as well. Will the health of yourself or you spouse decline in the near future? Moving into a senior living community simply means admitting you are taking control of the quality of your life.
How to Choose An Appropriate Community
Choosing the best independent living community depends on your desires, needs, and budget. There are types of independent living communities for everyone — you simply have to decide which is best for you and your family.
1. Retirement Community
Townhouses, family homes, condos, duplexes, and mobile homes may make up a retirement community. However, these communities often have an age requirement of 55+. One perk of living in a community like this is that they are usually managed by a property manager who takes care of aspects of the community like clubhouse maintenance and lawn care.
2. Subsidized Senior Housing
The U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development subsidizes senior housing complexes for low-income seniors.
For those experiencing limited incomes, this is an ideal option.
3. Assisted Living Community
Assisted Living Communities give your loved one the best option. Not only will they maintain as much independence as possible, they can strive in an environment that is catered to their unique needs. And the best part is that certain communities, such as Avanti Senior Living, offers programs specifically designed for those that suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia. Avanti uses good design and architecture to keep your loved one safe while giving them freedom of choice and a place to call home.
Coping With Your Transition
The transition from home to retirement home or senior living community is a big one. However, there is a lot you can do to make your transition as smooth as possible. First of all, pack early to make everything easy. Then, once you unpack, take pride in your home — decorate it and make it your own. Finally, remember adjustment takes time and it’s important to not be hard on yourself when you are feeling frustrated.
Conclusion
You do not need to give up your independence to get the assistance you need. Acknowledging that you need help in some areas of your life will increase the quality of your life, not lower it, by focusing on how to make your environment ideal. The tasks of picking the right time to move, choosing your independent living community and coping with your transition are made much simpler with proper research into communities in your area, in addition to a deep consideration of your needs.
