When considering retirement, it’s crucial to choose the right retirement community. It’s about more than comfort, decorations, peace and quiet —it’s about finding a place that truly feels like your new home. So how do you choose the right retirement community?
When choosing a future retirement community, make sure to:
- Look at the location and layout
- Learn about the levels of care
- Consider the services and amenities
- Find out the financial structure
- Consider the community values
Then, all that’s left is to schedule a tour to see your new home for yourself!
Look at the Location & Layout
When it comes to choosing a future home, the first factor to consider is location. It plays a big part in your future comfort—after all, you’ll want to live somewhere that’s convenient and meets your needs!
Try to think about:
- Proximity to family and friends
- Access to healthcare facilities
- Nearby shopping and entertainment options
- How close it is to your favorite activities
A conveniently located community can make a significant difference, which can have rippling effects throughout the rest of your life.
Layout
However, as important as location is, it isn’t the only thing. The physical layout makes a difference as well! A potential future community should be:
- Easy to navigate
- Equipped with accessible facilities
- Designed with safety in mind
- Featuring comfortable and inviting common areas
- Offering a variety of living space options
The layout should allow you to move around freely and safely, ensuring that your living environment supports your lifestyle.
Learn About the Levels of Care
With age, you may begin to face unique challenges over the years. This means that, over time, your needs may evolve and constantly shift. It’s crucial to choose a community that offers various levels of care—like independent living, assisted living, and memory care—so that you can always adjust your care plan to meet your unique needs.
This flexibility offers a great deal of peace of mind; it means that no matter what obstacles may arise, you’ll have the support and care you need. Try to choose a community that offers personalized care plans that adjust as needed so you don’t need to worry about a future move if your needs and capabilities change.
Think About the Services and Amenities
Your retirement years should be filled with activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Services and amenities play a vital role in how you spend your days. From fitness centers and swimming pools to social clubs and cultural events, the right amenities can significantly enhance your quality of life.
Here at Cedar Creek Senior Living, our residents can enjoy seamless access to:
- Housekeeping
- Laundry services
- Lounge rooms with fireplaces
- Private dining areas
- Fitness rooms
- A whirlpool spa
- Full-service salons
- Nearby walking paths
- A beautiful courtyard with an outdoor fireplace
- An interfaith on-site chapel
Services and amenities play an important role in your quality of life, so make sure you’re choosing a future community that can truly meet your needs!
Find Out the Financial Structure
Understanding the financial structure of a retirement community is essential for planning your future. It’s important to have a clear view of the costs involved, as well as what those costs cover.
Different communities offer various payment options, such as an upfront entrance fee, monthly rentals, or a combination of both. Try to think about what’s financially feasible for you, and what could happen if your financial situation changes—will there be a way to adjust your plan or rely on alternative assistance programs if needed?
A transparent financial plan gives you and your family peace of mind. Make sure to ask about:
- What is included in the monthly fee?
- Are there any additional costs for specific services or amenities?
- How often are fees adjusted, and what is the typical increase?
- Are there any options for refundable entrance fees?
- What happens if you outlive your resources?
Having a comprehensive understanding of the financial structure helps ensure that there are no unexpected surprises and that your chosen community remains your home for years to come.
Consider the Community Values
When selecting a retirement community, it’s not just about the bricks and mortar—it’s about finding a place that aligns with your values and lifestyle. The community spirit, the way residents and staff interact, and the overall ethics of the community should resonate with your own beliefs and preferences.
A retirement community should feel like an extension of your own family. It’s important to find out:
- What is the community’s mission and vision?
- Are there opportunities for residents to contribute and participate in community decisions?
- How does the community celebrate holidays, birthdays, and other special events?
- Is there a focus on diversity and inclusivity?
By understanding the community’s values, you can ensure that your new home isn’t just a place to live, but a place where you belong.
Schedule Your Visit
Here at Cedar Creek Senior Living, we know how important it is to find a place that truly feels like home. Our community isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place where you can join a real community that supports you in all your endeavors. Schedule a visit with us today, and take the first step towards finding your future home!
