Leaving your home to move into an independent or assisted living facility can be difficult. It may feel stressful and tense, while at other times exciting and novel. Emotions often run high, which means decision-making may be more challenging than usual. One way you can relieve the burden is to have a plan in place about where you want your life to go. From independent living facilities to assisted living centers, from moving in with family to renting a room in your home, you can experiment with many senior living options that can make your golden years your best years.
The independent advisors at Lifetime Retirement Partners can help you chart a plan for your retirement whether you need financial planning or investment management. Call 800-971-2989 to schedule an appointment.
Assisted and Independent Living Facilities
Some seniors feel anxious about living alone safely. They want a place where they control their lives, while also having support with taking medications, preparing meals, and handling personal needs in their daily activities. Assisted living facilities help you do just that. As your needs escalate, you don’t have to worry about finding a place with more support. Independent living facilities, while similar to assisted living (and they may often be combined in one center), are for seniors in good health who want a more social, resort-like lifestyle.
Omaha is home to several top-rated assisted living facilities, so do some online research to find a few you can visit in person to make sure you’ll feel comfortable living there. It’s also a good idea to research amenities, cost, and payment options.
Sharing a Senior Home
Another coliving option is renting a room in your home, which is a great way to stabilize your finances and safety as you age in place. A roommate’s presence can add a substantial amount of safety and security. If you slip or fall, they can help. They know when your behaviors change, keep you social, are around in case of an accident or injury, and can help share the finances. Just be sure to set up clear boundaries; for example, make sure you both agree on rules for shared spaces, can communicate openly about needing private time and are committed to a clean and tidy home.
Safe and Accessible Ways to Age in Place
Chances are high that you will face some physical or mental health concerns that can make your home unsafe — this is the most common reason seniors move. However, if you install or prepare modifications to make your home safe, you can grow through your golden years comfortably. One of the easiest modifications to make is to move your bedroom to the first floor. Use non-slip mats or flooring anywhere water can become a hazard, like sinks, tubs, showers, toilets, clothes washers, and dishwashers. Ideally, you want to make your home as slip- and fall-proof as possible. Remember that 87 percent of falls lead to bone fractures in people over 65 — and the majority of these injuries happen in the home.
Moving to a Retirement Destination
Many people view retirement as a time to relax. Life, from here on out, is going to be a vacation. That’s why so many seniors retire to areas that feel like a permanent vacation. You can move into a 55-plus community where you don’t have to worry about the neighborhood flipping on you or college students moving in next door. You could also look into a resort-style condo or unit in a complex with golf, fitness classes, swimming, crafts, and organized activities.
Right now may not be the time to predict what you will need to live happily and healthily in your golden years — and that’s okay. Just knowing you need to make these decisions gets the ball rolling. Avoid making any quick decisions; instead, try to make decisions rooted in the reality of your finances, physical and mental health, and interests. You deserve to enjoy your golden years in a way that helps you feel alive.