Choosing a senior living community can seem daunting at first. But with some planning and in-person visits, the process can be much less intimidating than you think.
Look for communities that offer a range of services and amenities. List what is most important to you or your loved one, and prioritize those items when touring communities.
Location
When looking for senior living communities MO, consider how important it is that your loved one be close to family and friends, churches, doctors, shopping, or transportation. Your lifestyle and quality of life can significantly change due to a handy location.
Also, tour the community and observe how the staff and residents interact. It is an excellent indicator of the overall culture of the community. Look for a community that offers dining services and ask to see their monthly calendar of events.
In addition, if you are considering it, find out how much it costs and whether maintenance is included. Then, you can feel confident that you are prepared if your loved one needs more care.
Amenities
Many retirement communities offer amenities specifically for seniors, such as lower cabinet doors, higher toilets, and open and single-level floor plans. They also typically provide on-site recreational activities, social events, and transportation services to local shopping centers and other destinations.
Having friends and peers around can help combat the isolation that sometimes comes with senior living. It can also boost “feel good” hormones that can improve mood, give people more focus and energy, and even reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Some senior communities, such as golf and resort, are designed for specific interests. Others are geared toward couples or singles. Still, others may be pet-friendly, but policies vary by facility. Their free housing and care finder can help you locate options with the amenities that matter most to you.
Staff
Visiting potential senior living options in person is the best way to get an authentic feel for what life would be like there. During your visit, look for warm staff members who engage with residents and visitors alike. Also, observe how the community functions and ask questions about billing, payments, credit policies, and services available to residents.
Consider whether the community is for-profit or nonprofit and its stability. For example, some commit that if its people outlive their financial resources through no fault, their benevolence fund will ensure they can continue to live in the community they call home.
Finally, observe the activity calendar and note any social opportunities, trips, concerts, creative workshops, etc. Senior living communities have full-time entertainment coordinators who create these experiences to help seniors connect with others and discover something new.
Residents
Observing the residents is an excellent way to gauge a senior living community’s culture and atmosphere. Look for a vibrant group forming connections with each other and staff.
If your loved one no longer drives or limits their trips, ask about transportation services available in and around the community. Many communities provide transportation to grocery stores, banks, medical offices, movie theaters, and more.
Dining is another vital consideration. Look for a chef and dining hall that provide three nutritionally balanced meals daily, and don’t be afraid to try a meal in the community when visiting. Exceptional senior communities connect their residents with neighbors through social events, trips, and classes encouraging new friendships and experiences.
Cost
The cost of senior living can vary significantly depending on the type of housing and the services available. There are three main types of senior communities: independent living, assisted living, and continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs). It’s essential to understand each option’s different fees, amenities, and price structures to determine which one best suits your or your loved one’s needs and budget.
Seniors interested in a carefree lifestyle should consider independent living, which offers various services, including light housekeeping, meal preparation, and home maintenance. Most communities also provide a variety of activities, such as physical fitness classes and travel opportunities. Unlike other housing types, independent living communities typically do not include meals in the monthly rent. Residents can instead purchase a flexible dining plan or pay extra for meals in the community restaurant.
