Are you interested in independent living but not sure when you’ll be ready to make a change? Knowing when the time is right can be challenging, especially if you’re active and enjoying the freedom of retirement.
Despite the attractive lifestyle and incredible amenities that senior living communities offer, you and your family might still be asking, “When is the right time?”
You’re not alone – many residents and their loved ones start with the same question. However, we can say from experience that nearly all of our residents confess, “I wish I hadn’t waited so long!”
Searching for a Sign
The truth is there’s no right or wrong age to consider independent living, but there are signs that can help guide your journey.
Here are a few indications you are ready to consider your independent living options:
You’re tired of looking after a house.
Our homes can be a great source of pride, but even some of the chores and maintenance tasks we once enjoyed can feel like a burden. Planting flowers, regular mowing, and seasonal cleanup may no longer bring the same satisfaction.
In this new stage of life, you may have rooms that rarely see use but still need dusting and vacuuming.
Chores that were once easy – climbing up and down a ladder, changing light bulbs, mopping floors – become more tiring and cumbersome.
An upstairs game room or basement hangout was great when you had teenagers, but now you’re tired of trekking up and down the stairs.
You used to look forward to decorating your home for the holidays, but now, bringing boxes down from the attic feels like more of a headache than it’s worth.
“Right-sizing” your life is a way to consciously choose to create a life that aligns with your goals, priorities, and values in the best way possible at every stage.
It could also mean choosing the simplicity, convenience, and opportunities of joining a senior living community.
At Senior Star, our residents enjoy hospitality, service and amenities similar to what you’d find at an upscale resort! Our residences offer all of the comforts and personal touches of home while giving you access to restaurant-style dining, concierge services and Signature transportation services.
You’ve been thinking about your health now and in the future.
You may be in excellent health right now or have a chronic condition that will affect your ability to stay active. In either case, thinking about your current and future health needs makes sense.
Consider who would help you if activities of daily living, such as showering or preparing meals became difficult. If you’re living with a partner or spouse, it’s also wise to consider the care they might need in the future.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, someone turning age 65 today has nearly a 70% chance of needing some type of long-term care in their lifetime.
It’s one of the reasons more retired adults are choosing to explore independent senior living communities now. Many communities have an opportunity to increase “age in place” where residents can increase their level of care to assisted living when they need it.
Residents and their family members feel a sense of security knowing both emergency support and long-term care are there if ever needed.
Moving to independent living when you’re active can provide a safety net without the stress of an illness or health crisis forcing you to make a quick decision.
You feel lonely.
Senior isolation and loneliness is a growing concern. One-fourth of adults 65 and over report feeling isolated regularly.
Chronic loneliness can impact your physical and mental health, which is why it’s important to make plans to stay socially engaged, even if you’re an introvert by nature.
Many older adults find their social circles narrow after leaving the workforce. Loneliness can also set in after the death of a spouse or if weather or trouble driving keeps you from getting out as much as you used to.
Independent living provides seamless ways to meet people and make friends. Events, activities, clubs and fitness classes offer daily opportunities to socialize and get more out of life. With neighbors who are similar in age, you’re bound to find that you have lots of things in common!
You’re tired of figuring out what’s for dinner.
Even if you enjoy cooking, being the sole person responsible for grocery shopping, meal prep and dishes can get tiresome day after day.
Anytime Dining is one of our Signature Programs at Senior Star. Residents have the flexibility to enjoy their meals on their schedule.
Prefer to grab breakfast at your favorite diner or want to cook at home this evening? Since there’s no need to make a reservation, you can head to the dining room when you are ready to eat or you can make other plans. It’s up to you!
Senior Star dining rooms offer chef-prepared meals that cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs. The convenience of Senior Star dining empowers residents to take trips or make last-minute plans without having to worry about what’s in the fridge.
Meals are also an opportunity to connect with friends or chat with caring associates – which can be especially comforting to people who have recently lost a partner.
You’re ready for an adventure.
Maybe you’re ready to travel, learn a new skill or volunteer in your community. Whatever your retirement goals, independent living can give you the freedom and flexibility to pursue your dreams.
Independent living amenities can help you maintain your independence as you age and enjoy a convenient lifestyle.
Senior Star communities offer concierge services, signature transportation, salon and spa services, as well as laundry and housekeeping services.
With more time and fewer responsibilities, you can visit family, spend time with friends or simply relax and explore your retirement.
When is the right time for independent living?
Active older adults of all ages are discovering the benefits of independent living. Only you can decide when it’s time to take the next step, but you’ll never regret exploring your options.
Contact us to connect with a Senior Star associate or schedule a tour of an independent living community near you.