Regardless of your age, there is no doubt that thinking about retirement is a daunting task. Making the decision to downsize and leave your home for a retirement community can be even more challenging. But with the right information, it doesn’t have to be so scary. Here are some tips on what to do – and what not to do – when considering retirement home living.
The Dos.
1. Do your research – take your time in finding the perfect community for you or your loved one. There are many different types of retirement homes, from Independent Living to Assisted Living to Nursing Homes. It’s important to find one that meets all of your needs and wants.
2. Do ask questions – once you’ve narrowed down your choices, be sure to ask plenty of questions. Some important topics to cover include cost of living, type of care provided, activities and amenities offered, and location.
3. Do visit the retirement homes on your list – nothing beats an in-person tour. This will give you a better feel for the community and allow you to see if it’s a good fit.
4. Do talk to current residents – they can provide you with an insider’s view of what it’s really like to live there. Be sure to ask about their experiences with the staff, other residents, and the overall quality of life in the community.
5. Do consider your finances – moving to a retirement home is a big financial decision. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the costs involved and how they will fit into your budget.
6. Do think about your health care needs – if you or your loved one has any health concerns, be sure to find out what type of care is available at the retirement home.
7. Do pack carefully – when you move to a retirement home, you won’t have as much space for your belongings. Be sure to only bring the items that are truly important to you.
8. Do stay active – many retirement homes offer a variety of activities and amenities to help residents stay active and engaged. Take advantage of these opportunities to stay healthy and connected.
9. Do make new friends – one of the best parts of retirement home living is meeting new people. Don’t be afraid to socialize and make some new friends.
10. Do enjoy your retirement – this is supposed to be a time of relaxation and enjoyment. Try to make the most of it!
The Dont’s
1. Don’t make a decision without doing your research – this is a big decision that will have a major impact on your life. Be sure to take your time and consider all of your options before making a choice.
2. Don’t choose a retirement home based on price alone – it’s important to find a community that meets all of your needs, not just your budget.
3. Don’t forget to ask questions – this is your life, so be sure to get all the information you need before making a decision.
4. Don’t skip the tour – an in-person visit will give you a much better sense of what the retirement home is like.
5. Don’t forget to have a backup plan – things don’t always go according to plan. Be sure to have a backup option in case your first choice doesn’t work out.
6. Don’t underestimate the cost of living in a retirement home – this is a major financial decision that should not be taken lightly.
7. Don’t pack your entire life into your new home – you won’t have as much space, so be sure to only bring the things that are truly important to you.
8. Don’t neglect your health – many retirement homes offer a variety of activities and amenities to help residents stay active and engaged. Be sure to take advantage of these opportunities to stay healthy and connected.
9. Don’t ignore red flags – if you see or hear something that makes you uncomfortable, be sure to bring it up with the staff. Trust your gut instinct and don’t hesitate to ask for a tour of a different community if something doesn’t feel right.
10. Don’t forget to enjoy your retirement – this is supposed to be a time of relaxation and enjoyment. Make the most of it!
Making the decision to move into a retirement home is a big one. But by following these dos and don’ts, you can be sure that you are making the best decision for yourself and your loved ones.
