6 minute read
Where to go when you retire
Not everyone is doomed to a life of either isolation or constant care – there are a variety of options
BOTH MY PARENTS wanted to live in the home they’d shared for their whole married life –which was well over 60 years when they died.
Aging in place was a thing for them. They refused to move in with any of their children or go to a retirement village, both wanting their independence and to die at home – something mom got right and dad almost did.
Staying in your home is a good option for those who are relatively independent or who can get the level of help they need.
Aging in place requires, for instance, in-home caregivers, cleaning services, meal delivery and other such things to help with the various activities of daily living.
You may also need simple home modifications and repairs to make the homes safer, including wheelchair ramps, bathroom grab bars and a medical alert system.
You would also need caregivers, family and friends on call. My parents’ home was an open house right up until the doors closed when my dad died shortly after my mom, so the community, wonderful caregivers, friends and my siblings were available at all times.
On the downside, we worried about my ultra-independent dad when mom died.
However, up to the age of 92, when he died, dad was able to enjoy his front porch, watch his fig tree bear fruit one last time and welcome us to his table.
However, for those looking to maintain independence without the isolation, various options are available.
We explore some alternatives:
Shared housing, co housing and multigenerational homes: For those who can remember, think Golden Girls. The shared housing options appeal to those hoping to avoid the high costs of assisted living for as long as possible.
Monthly expenses are cut and household chores are shared. Plus you have instant companionship if you need it. While you gain big on saving money, you do lose out on privacy.
Multigenerational homes can be wonderful as the grandparents can assist with your kids and later, your kids can assist with the grandparents. It’s cost cutting, however, privacy is lost and like sharing digs with friends, rules need to be set.
Who’s it good for? Those wanting to keep costs down and enjoy independent living for as long as possible but also have companionship and shared costs. Also, the latest 55-plus generation is one of the first generations who had the option of not having children, so may not have family in old age, so a family created from friends living together is a great option.
Relative cost? Low to medium if the accommodation is paid off, but will need the usual upkeep, and can require more help from family and friends.
Despite having the support of your family and community, you may eventually decide to leave your home. Recent changes in retirement living have made the transition more appealing than it once was.
Forget, those depressing old-age homes where old people were sent to die. Today, retirement homes are vibrant places where people enjoy new careers, new friendships and, sometimes, even new love.
With people today living to 120, 80 is becoming the new middle age and so, retirement living has had to adapt to ensure it caters to the changing landscape.
The Senior List explains the types of living options:
Independent living
What is it? Any housing designed exclusively for those over 55, usually including retirement communities and villages, and retirement homes. Who is it good for? Those who want to live in an active community setting and be relatively independent. Retirement communities are a popular option because you can socialise with your peers, participate in community activities and excursions, and gain access to a social support network outside your immediate family.
How does it work? People of similar age live together in a community that provides opportunities for socialising. In general, the housing is more compact, easier to navigate and includes help with outdoor maintenance.
Relative cost? Medium to high, depending on location and services.
Continuing care retirement community (CCRC)
What is it? The communities are part independent living, part-assisted living, and a part skilled nursing facility. Who is it good for? If you want to live in one location for the rest of your life and don’t want to worry about arranging for future care needs. They’re also good for spouses who want to live close to each other even if one requires a higher level of care.
How does it work? Residents can start out living in the independent living section and move to various parts of the same community as they need increasing levels of care.
Relative cost? High. CCRCs are one of the most expensive of all long-term care options.
Assisted-living community
What is it? An assisted-living community typically consists of small apartments in a care community. There’s a wide range of services across different care communities.
Who is it good for? Older adults who can live somewhat independently but require some assistance. Some communities do offer higher levels of care, and dementia care is growing as the disease continues to increase.
How does it work? Typical services include staff available 24 hours a day, meals, medication management, bathing, dressing, housekeeping and transportation. Most facilities have a group dining area and common areas for social and recreational activities.
Nursing home
What is it? This option is if you need 24-hour supervised care, with meals, activities and health management.
Who is it good for? If you have severe or debilitating physical or mental illnesses and are unable to care for yourself.
How does it work? A licensed doctor supervises each resident’s care and a nurse or other medical professional is almost always on the premises. Some facilities have physical and occupational therapists on staff.
Relative cost? High. Costs vary according to the level of daily help required and the type of living space.
The fact is, as you age you have options. Not everyone is doomed to a life of needing constant care. However, if you do need it, there are places that provide it. And there are options to suit every pocket.
Why shouldn’t the next part of your life be the best part of your life?
