Retirement Communities as One of the Options to Senior Living

A retirement living is primarily a housing option for individuals who are 65 years and above. They are a privately owned residence that accommodates not more than six people and provides at least two levels of care services, which are providing meals and administration of medication. In this type of adult living, residents are able to enjoy the aspect of community living while maintaining their independence. If you are seeking for a simple, comfortable and flexible lifestyle after retirement with minimum to moderate assistance, this is an ideal option for you.

Even though residents receive little assistance in a retirement community, daily tasks such as basic housekeeping, meals, transportation, laundry service, social and cultural activities are still done for them. Perhaps this is the reason why 48% retirees stated being happier in retirement than expected, according to a survey by MONEY readers. Unlike other senior living options, residents in retirement living cater to their own lifestyle needs along side payments for care services and accommodation. There is no government intervention in this type of senior housing and they are governed by the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority.

While medical details are of little concern in a retirement residence, an administrator may still look at the specific resident’s needs before they move in to ensure their needs can be met. One limitation to retirement communities is that they don’t offer health care services. So if you are looking for long-term skilled nursing care, this may not be the best option for you. Instead, you can seek other options such as assisted living, which offers both home and health care for its residents.

Retirement communities are designed to make the life of residents more comfortable with special amenities such as fitness centers, clubhouses, pools, golf courses, and much more. Most of them are strategically located to offer convenience in accessing things like medical facilities, shopping centers and restaurants.

There are several types of retirement living options and they vary based on individual needs. These are assisted living, memory care, seniors’ apartments and independent living. Since most seniors have different level of care, it’s important you evaluate these options carefully to find the best solution for your needs.