Why are more active and independent seniors choosing to move to a continuing care retirement community such as Edgewood Summit? When you listen to our residents, you’ll hear that they were tired of doing chores like yardwork and housekeeping. Or that after crunching the numbers, they found independent senior living costs were surprisingly affordable, and included great amenities and senior health care. Others are excited about meeting new friends and getting involved in new activities. Clearly the decision when to move into senior living is highly personal. However, when healthy and active older adults do so, they create a road map for their future.
They live longer, better
Senior living communities naturally focus on the health, wellness and nutrition of their residents. Just as importantly, they nurture social connections. In a long-running study on longevity, Harvard researchers show the strength of our relationships have a powerful effect on our physical health and how long we live. With social distancing becoming the new normal, it’s easier to meet like-minded people and forge friendships in a community setting.
They sidestep surprises
Along with taxes, utilities, insurance and other rising costs of homeownership, most homeowners can expect to dole out a substantial sum of money on home maintenance as well as the occasional emergency repair. In a senior living community, a monthly fee covers services such as home maintenance, dining and housekeeping, and amenities such as a fitness center, art studio and more. There’s much to enjoy for one monthly fee, with no surprises.
They lock in peace of mind
It’s hard to think about what might happen if you suffer a change in health. Yet the reality is that 70% of seniors 65 and older will need some type of long-term care — with an average stay of approximately 3 years. A continuing care retirement community (CCRC) offers high-quality senior care on campus as part of predictable independent senior living costs. This unique advantage of CCRCs provides peace of mind about future health care.
They pass the health test
Leaving the decision to move to a continuing care retirement community until later can backfire. There are certain health requirements needed to enter the community, and you’ll need to pass a health assessment or undergo a medical exam. This is done to ensure the community stays viable for all its residents and can accommodate everyone’s care needs. While there’s no best age to move into independent living, the earlier you move in, , the less of a problem the health evaluation is likely to be.
They’re engaged and energized
Senior living communities provide countless opportunities for wellness, socializing and lifelong learning as part of an independent living lifestyle. Explore your creative side in the art studio. Volunteer and give back to the local community. Join friends for Happy Hour or a game of pool. In a warm and welcoming community like Edgewood Summit, there are lots to do, and it’s easy to make friends.
If you’re still wondering when to move to senior living, why not explore what Edgewood Summit can offer you? With the freedom of a maintenance-free life, you’ll also get the reassurance of affordable care: all independent living residents get a 20% discount on any type of care they might need, for their whole life. Contact us to find out more.