Have you asked yourself if staying in your home is best for the lifestyle you desire? Or are you considering whether moving to a senior living community may be the answer? Either way, you’ll want to make sure you’re seeing a clear and accurate picture before you make your decision.
When comparing the two options, start by taking an honest assessment of your current home and whether it can champion your ability to age well. You may want to ask yourself these questions:
- Are there impediments that will create a safety hazard or make aging at home more difficult?
- Will you need to remodel or make extensive and expensive repairs?
- Is your home located in a neighborhood that supports healthy aging?
Common cliches about senior living communities
When evaluating the possibility of moving into a senior living or independent community, take the time to eliminate any incorrect assumptions you may have.
Challenging the following 5 myths about independent living may change your view once you see firsthand all that is available.
#1 All senior living is the same
If you haven’t been involved in helping your parents or others consider their options, you may not realize the different choices that are available. Senior living can be the catch-phrase for all different levels of care and you’ll want to understand the distinctions.
What you most likely are looking for is independent or retirement living. What you’ll find there should include the following:
- An independent life, just as you have now, where you are free to come and go as you choose
- A private home to customize as your own
- Delicious dining options when you don’t want to cook or eat at home
- Social activities that will help you make new friends and meet your neighbors
- Fitness centers to help you maintain or begin a healthy exercise routine
- Scheduled transportation for medical appointments or social events when you don’t want to drive
- Maintenance-free living
#2 You’ll eventually lose your independence
People may assume that once they move into senior living that they will begin losing their independence. Nothing could be further from the truth. These communities are called independent living because that is exactly what you’ll be doing. Imagine the same life you have today, except no longer having to take care of maintaining a home.
You are in complete control of your life in an independent living community. You’ll live in your own private home and the choices are all yours to make. No one will come knocking at your door when it’s time for dinner, except maybe your friends.
It’s up to you to decide if you want to join others for a swim, meet up for a walk or go out on the town for a night of entertainment. There is one other difference though when compared to your life now – you won’t have to do any of the scheduling or planning.
#3 All communities are the same
They’re not. You’ll want to schedule tours of the different communities in your area so you can decide which one best meets your needs. Visit their websites to begin your research. Talk to family and friends who may be able to offer referrals or some insight into a certain community. You should be able to challenge this senior living cliché as soon as you arrive.
Take the time to consider and compare how each community may differ, including:
- Quality of design and construction
- Size of your home and floor plan layouts
- Location in the larger community
- Amenities available for your use
- Quality of meals. You’re looking for delicious and nutritious
- Policies for safety and security in both your home and the community
- Number of activities offered that appeal to your interests
- Level of professionalism and friendliness of the staff
#4 There’s nothing to do but grow older and lonely
This myth about senior living is the exact opposite of what you’ll really find in an independent living community. In fact, many people say they’re more active now than they ever were before. And with all the activities you’ll have to choose from, you’ll discover such a simple and natural way to meet your neighbors and make new friends.
With the classes, social opportunities and other community events, it’s never been easier. There are so many activities you can join so you are bound to find many that suit your interests.
Although there will be monthly calendars filled with available options, remember you’re also free to choose those that appeal to your more quiet side, including staying home, snuggled up with a good book and a great glass of wine.
#5 Senior living is similar to living in a facility
Once you arrive at an independent living community, you should immediately know that this myth has been exposed.
You’ll have choices for your new home, including size and layout. Of course it should be beautiful and inviting as your homes have always been. And personalized to reflect your life and design taste.
You’ll find convenient on-site access to amenities such as a library or heated swimming pool. There will be classes to take at the fitness center or the opportunity to explore your artistic side in a studio.
You’ll find no hint of a facility from the moment you walk through the entry or while taking a walk on one of the many pathways. Everything is customized to offer what you’re looking for as you continue to embrace your best life.
Ingleside at Rock Creek Independent Living
We create great communities and know all the myths about independent or senior living. You won’t find a trace of any of those old cliches at Rock Creek.
We’re here to support our residents to reach for and achieve the height of their most engaged and fulfilled life. We hope you’ll consider our community so you can see for yourself our beautiful homes, spacious floorplans, amenities, activities and dining possibilities.
Everything you need is only steps from your front door. And if you’re in the mood to sample what the city has to offer, you’ll appreciate the easy access to Washington DC
Call (202) 846-2651 if you have any questions or would like to schedule a personalized tour today