Many adults want to remain in their homes as they grow older, but there comes a time when living at home may no longer be as comfortable, safe, or enjoyable as it once was. Moving to a retirement community gives older adults more than just a place to live, it can also lead to a better sense of happiness, fulfillment, and quality of life. It’s not uncommon for residents to say they wish they had moved to retirement living sooner! If you’re curious about senior living for yourself or an older loved one, read on to learn about some of the top benefits of joining a retirement community.
Avoid senior isolation
After the passing of a spouse, living at home can become lonely and isolating for older adults, especially if family members don’t live nearby. According to a study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, loneliness and social isolation increased the mortality rate in adults aged 52 and older. Without family or friends to provide social interaction, seniors also experience poor mental and physical health effects including depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, malnutrition, and high blood pressure.
However, in a retirement community setting, older adults have more opportunities for socialization and meaningful engagement among peers who share their interests. By moving to a retirement community, seniors are just steps away from friendly neighbors and caregivers in a warm, welcoming environment.
More safety and security
Seniors living alone are often vulnerable targets of crimes such as elder fraud, financial exploitation, or burglary. Solitary living is also associated with an increased risk of falling, and those living alone may find themselves unable to contact medical assistance in the event of a fall or other emergency. One of the greatest benefits of moving to a retirement community is increased safety and security features of these communities. Retirement communities are ADA compliant and have on-site security and nursing staff available 24-hours a day. Most communities also have emergency alert systems, giving residents and families reassurance that help is available at a moment’s notice.
Enjoy maintenance-free living
Keeping up with the chores and maintenance tasks of owning a home is challenging, especially for seniors who may have health conditions or limited mobility. Moving to a retirement community puts an end to some of these hassles and worries, with convenient on-campus amenities such as housekeeping, landscaping, dining options, and transportation services. Ultimately, in a retirement community, seniors have the freedom to enjoy a more carefree, low-maintenance lifestyle.
Explore new education and recreation activities
Retirement gives seniors a fresh start to explore new hobbies, activities, and interests. Retirement communities provide endless opportunities for residents to engage in education and recreational activities such as continuing education classes, book clubs, fitness classes, art and crafts, trips to local concerts and restaurants, and much more! Most retirement communities have activity coordinators on staff dedicated to scheduling fun, enriching activities and events that help foster new friendships and ensure residents are never bored.
