Regardless of your age, living without worry works best when you have a carefully considered plan—and a proactive attitude. Although the ideal age for moving into a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) varies by individual, doing so as early as 65 allows seniors to make the most of the amenities and active, relaxed lifestyle that CCRCs can offer. It also ensures that they’ll have any additional support they need in the future. Here are some of the toss-and-turn concerns that may prompt your search for carefree senior living.
Removing Worry: Concerns That Can Be Resolved with a CCRC
Finding the right CCRC can give you or your loved one peace of mind regarding most aspects of aging. It’s a major step along way on the journey to stress-free living if you are worried about any of the following:
- Major life changes. If you or your loved one has recently lost a partner or spouse, it’s important to assess the “360-degree” impact of that event. With some major life changes, the home a senior currently lives in may no longer be best for them in terms of well-being or finances. This can be a good time to explore CCRC options. If possible, it’s best to do so before a major health issue occurs in one or both life partners so that you can reduce stress, make sound decisions, and enjoy a better quality of life for longer.
- Decreased mobility (driving or walking). If driving beyond short distances has become difficult or dangerous, CCRCs offer the amenities seniors need within walking distance as well as transportation services. If walking or exercise becomes difficult, they can also provide customized services to help seniors get around. Moving into a CCRC not only removes concerns around senior mobility, but helps older adults become less dependent on family members and friends for this purpose.
- Difficulty with home and property maintenance. If you or your senior parent lives in a home that is now too big for them or is difficult to keep in good repair, downsizing to a smaller home or apartment in a CCRC can be an excellent solution. Maintenance staff take care of all the landscaping and repair needs so seniors don’t have to worry about them. However, for those who still love to garden, it’s worth looking for an organization that has a community garden or allows container gardens on resident properties.
- Burdensome household chores and future personal care. Seniors who can simply benefit from a little help with things like cooking, cleaning, and laundry can be good candidates for a CCRC. Although it’s best not to wait for a major crisis to join one, these organizations also tailor more essential support services to changing individual needs. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that seniors can get help with additional personal care tasks like bathing, dressing, and grooming down the road.
- Chronic health concerns. Seniors with minor chronic health concerns may be able to improve them with CCRC fitness programs and facilities. With CCRCs, the goal is for seniors to move in while they are still able to live independently. Doing this in a timely manner ensures they’ll have access to emergency medical assistance as well as help with managing healthcare programs, appointments, and medications as they are needed in the future.
- Changes in memory, thinking, and social activity. Joining a CCRC also supports senior mental health. For older adults who have recently lost a partner, close friend, or family member, or who are simply becoming too isolated, joining a retirement community can provide a psychologically healthy lifestyle. These organizations promote socialization through dining, fitness, off-campus trips, and plenty of other activities. Seniors who choose to live in an apartment can make friends just a few steps from their door.
Choose a Carefree Life with Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury
Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury is a continuing care community (also known as a life plan community) providing the highest quality living experience for discerning senior adults. Situated on 165 beautiful acres outside the village of Irvington in Virginia’s Northern Neck, RWC residents choose to live here for the independent and worry-free lifestyle afforded in a tranquil setting.
Wondering if you’re ready for carefree living with us? Take our 4-5 minute quiz to help you work toward a decision.
Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury Inc. is a Virginia nonprofit corporation affiliated with the Episcopal and Presbyterian churches. All religions are welcome.
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