Feeling Comfortable Making the Move to Senior Living Communities (con’t).

SocialBenefits

One of the most beneficial aspects of making this transition is the available social connections. As we age, our social networks tend to shrink, which can leave us feeling isolated and lonely; social isolation is a real problem for many as they age and can hurt their mental health. Senior living communities offer the opportunity to make new friends and engage in social and physical activities, whichcanhelpseniorsfeelmoreconnectedandfulfilled.

These communities allow residents to meet people of similar age groups and backgrounds through various activities and social events. Many will have movie nights, swimming activities, theme nights, walking groups, bridge, art classes, music, and yoga, to name a few. Through regular socialization and interaction with other residents, they quickly integrate into a loving family that values mutual acceptanceandfriendlyencouragementforengagement.

EndingtheBurdenofHomeOwnership

Owning a home can be a burden due to the various chores that come with it, such as interior and exterior maintenance, shovelling snow, mowing the lawn, cleaning bathrooms, and mopping floors. However, moving to an environment where maintenance is provided does not detract from what you enjoy doing, like gardening. Instead, it creates morefreetimeforresidentstodowhattheylove.

CostSavings

Living in a residence may be perceived as expensive, so it is essential to establish an accurate picture when calculating your budget. Many expenses may be reduced or eliminated; these could include:mortgage, property taxes, school taxes, municipal taxes, utilities, lawn maintenance, home maintenance, cable, telephone, internet, entertainment, transportation, home insurance (tenants' insurance is still required), home security systems, gym membership and housekeeping. On top of these cost savings, additional tax benefits are availableforthosewhotransitiontoaseniorlivingcommunity.

SecurityandSafety

Finally, environments like this increase security and safety. The safety of their parents is of utmost concern. It most often worries adult children about seeing them remain at home. These communities are equipped with security systems and emergency response procedures to address any potential threats or accidents, and these offerings bring forthpeaceofmindtotheadultchildrenandtheresidents. The second most popular reason for moving is the increasing number of health concerns. Why? At a certain point, transitioning to a residence may become the next necessary step to ensure a safe and caring living environment. Mobility may be a challenge, and stairs are more difficult to navigate. Tasks once taken for granted and simple to do, like cooking, cleaning, bathing, and home maintenance, are now becoming more of a burden and are not being executed. For some, there may be cognitive concerns where day-to-day living activities in the family home or condo are becoming morechallenging.