AARP reports that 90% of Americans aged 50 and above wish to stay in their homes. This is an overwhelming priority.
But they prefer something other than the options that are available to them. They reject a view of aging defined by deficits, decline, and increasing irrelevance. Instead, they’re looking for settings and products that offer purposeful longevity.
Optimal Living
Many seniors are drawn to aging in place because they value the home they’ve worked hard to build and associate with site-specific activities, holiday traditions, and fond memories. They may also enjoy frequent visits from children and grandchildren.
However, new physical limitations or health conditions can make getting out of the house difficult, leading to social isolation and loneliness. Then there are the costs: real estate taxes, homeowner’s insurance, and upkeep of a large home.
A retirement community such as Cambridge Village is a good alternative for seniors looking to simplify their lives, stay socially active and avoid costly institutional care. CCRCs are ideal for couples who want to remain together even when one requires increased maintenance. They typically feature an independent living section and offer additional care as needed. They may also provide routine transportation to shopping malls, grocery stores, doctors’ offices and more. Furthermore, communities can provide various social, recreational, and educational activities to keep their residents engaged and occupied.
Assisted Living
Whether navigating icy sidewalks or dealing with a broken-down car, staying at home can be dangerous for seniors. Many boomers also face loneliness and isolation at home, impacting their health. In contrast, an assisted living community offers a supportive environment in which residents have the security of knowing they will receive assistance with their daily activities as needed.
Optimal Living takes a proactive wellness approach to care, including an onsite healthcare team and concierge services. This can help improve a resident’s quality of life and reduce the likelihood of an expensive in-home hospital visit or move to a skilled nursing facility. Often, assisted living apartments come furnished, but some communities allow residents to bring personal items to make their new space feel more like home. For example, a favorite chair or cherished dresser can add comfort and familiarity to the new apartment.
Memory Care
As dementia progresses, a person’s daily routine can become more complex and require more help. A memory care community can help by providing around-the-clock support. Daily activities are designed for the specific needs and interests of your loved one, allowing them to feel fulfilled and engaged.
Reminiscence therapy, sensory stimulation, and other activities help to keep the mind stimulated and prevent depression. Memory care communities can also offer physical wellness programs to promote a healthy lifestyle. These include chair-based workouts, simple exercises, and arts and crafts.
Specially-designed building layouts and enhanced security prevent wandering and help to ensure your loved one’s safety at all times. Knowing that your aging loved one is safe and well-cared for can provide peace of mind and reduce the stress of caregiving at home. Lastly, many senior living communities have medical professionals onsite and provide professional connections to additional healthcare services and specialists.
Skilled Nursing
Many retirement communities are redefining what it means to age in place. These communities offer skilled nursing care for residents with more serious medical issues, providing access to professional health services and monitoring their conditions.
Many aging adults are eager to remain in their homes and communities, particularly for as long as possible. In fact, according to AARP, 90% of people over 65 say they want to live at home for as long as they can.
But, the reality is that as we grow older, it becomes more challenging to stay organized and manage our finances and other personal affairs at home. This can lead to unhygienic living conditions, a lack of social engagement, and even isolation, which can negatively affect physical and mental well-being. At a retirement community, residents receive help with financial affairs and enjoy meals that provide the nutrition they need to maintain good health. They can also participate in exciting activities promoting social connections and a sense of purpose.
