Once you reach the age to retire, the option of living alone
isn't always available. The chores and maintenance necessary to run a home may
overwhelm you, and you don't always need all the extra space. At this point,
you may want to look into a senior living community.
However, before you tour potential communities, you should
create a list of questions to ask so you can make a sound decision about the
right community.
1. What Amenities Do You Offer?
First and foremost, you want to ask what amenities are
available. Not every option is the same. Some have little to no outdoor areas,
which is a nature lover's nightmare. On the other hand, a senior community may
not have good air conditioning. You may need a home with air conditioning if
you don't have a portable AC unit to bring along, especially if you have one of
the following health issues:
- Heart disease
- Blood circulation problems
- Mental illness
- Obesity
Certain medications may cause heat sensitivity issues as
well.
Additionally, when you compare the amenities of a senior
living community, you also want to inquire about laundry services as well as
what utilities you receive and if any limitations apply.
2. Are You a Pet-Friendly Community?
Pets have a positive impact
on the health of seniors. One study concluded that a
pet may reduce your risk of a heart attack. Mentally, you may benefit because
pets reduce loneliness and stress. However, not every independent living
community allows them.
Therefore, if you have a pet that you just don't want to
live without or would like a companion to move in with you at an independent
living facility, you should ask if the community is pet-friendly. You also need
to request information about the specifics of the type of pet you can bring.
For instance, the community may have size requirements or only allow a certain
type or breed of animal.
Your pet may also need to have his or her vaccinations up to
date.
When you tour the facility, you should make sure you have
enough space outside if you would need to take your pet outdoors for exercise
or to use the bathroom.
Additionally, when you request information about the
pet-friendliness of an independent housing complex, you should ask about any
fees you might need to pay.
3. What Appliances and Furnishings Do You Provide?
If you choose to downsize, you want to know what items you
need to keep. You might also want to ask about how much space you have to get
an idea of what you can bring.
Additionally, if you don't already have a home full of
furniture, you may need to purchase some to fill the space in your new
residence. Moreover, you may need to purchase an oven, refrigerator, or other
appliances if the facility doesn’t provide those.
4. Are the Houses or Apartments Handicap Accessible?
Mobility issues can interfere with your ability to live in a
senior community. However, a community may offer accommodations for seniors
with mobility issues, especially those in wheelchairs, to still live
independently.
Often, an apartment that caters to handicaps offers ramps
instead of steps at the entry. The doors and shower are often wider to let a
person move a wheelchair in the area easily.
Sometimes, even the counters are lower, so a person in a
wheelchair may cook easily.
When you choose a senior living community, you want one that
meets your needs and allows you to maintain your lifestyle as much as possible.
Therefore, you want to ask questions about the community to get a feel for what
you need, what the community offers, and if you can maintain your current lifestyle
with ease. These are just a reference, so you should think of other questions
that specifically pertain to your needs.
Book a tourof one of the available facilities through
Robert Cottingham Management, serving various areas of Illinois, today. We
offer various amenities and several options for communities at an affordable
price.
