When the time comes to consider senior living, it’s emotional for the entire family. But for seniors in particular, there are a number of common fears about senior living. Some are because of misperceptions many people have about senior living. However, the reality is that those stigmas of the past simply aren’t true today. Here, we’ll identify those fears about senior living and dispel them one by one.
A move to senior living is often seen as a tipping point to losing your independence entirely. But many are surprised to find that this fear about senior living is for naught as they are actually able to be more independent after they move. How? For one, the environment fosters independence by providing choice in everything from accommodations to support services to how you spend each day. Also, when seniors need help at home, they typically call friends, family, and neighbors which can leave you feeling like a burden. However, in senior living, everything is right outside your door and support is always at hand should you need it, which we find helps our residents to feel more empowered and comfortable than they were at home.
2. Fear of having to depend on others
When it comes to fears about senior living, this one really goes hand in hand with the fear of losing independence. There’s no question, when the time comes that you need help with daily activities, it’s hard. But needing a little support doesn’t prevent you from being able to live life to its fullest. In fact, senior living communities are specifically designed to provide just the right amount of support. For example, we’ll build a personalized wellness program based on your specific wants and needs to help you thrive. That allows our care staff to be there when you need us, without slowing you down.
Of all the fears about senior living, this is perhaps the biggest misperception. In fact, isolation and loneliness are much more common at home, particularly among seniors who live alone. The social aspect of senior living is actually one of its biggest draws. Friends, neighbors and care staff are always nearby. Plus, we offer a range of activities to help you stay active, connected, and engaged with life with a monthly calendar that includes social events, exercise programs, classes, clubs, live music and entertainment, game nights, group outings, religious services, volunteer opportunities, and more!
4. Fear of running out of money
Most people assume that staying at home will be less expensive than senior living. While this explains why the cost is one of the top fears about senior living, the truth is that in some cases it actually costs less than home. To determine if this might be the case for you, make sure you’re comparing the total monthly cost of living at home, not just your mortgage or rent, to the community’s monthly rent. Why is that important? Because your total monthly cost of living at home also includes food, utilities, home maintenance, property taxes, insurance, and entertainment as well. Not to mention the cost of at-home care if you’re using that. All of which are costs that ARE typically included in the monthly cost of senior living! What’s more, there are also a number of options that can help offset the cost of senior living to make it even easier to stretch your dollars.
For more information to dispel your or your loved one’s fears about senior living, download our Family Decision Toolkit. Or contact us today to schedule a tour.