Are you thinking about moving to a residence that\u2019s exclusively for autonomous retirees and pre-retirees? It\u2019s not a bad idea! But there are a few important things to know before you set out on this adventure.<\/p>\n
Residences for seniors have changed a lot, especially those designed with the autonomous client in mind. Some apartment complexes even have a Club Med-like feeling thanks to their wide range of activities, amenities and services.<\/p>\n <\/p><\/blockquote>\n Residences With Something for Everyone<\/strong><\/p>\n What makes it very advantageous to live in a residence is the wide range of services that they offer. In general, the larger the residence, the more services they provide.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n Beware<\/strong><\/em>: some services are included<\/strong> in the cost of rent<\/strong><\/em>, whereas others must be paid<\/strong> for on a per-use basis<\/strong><\/em>. If you choose these services, you must pay extra for them – which can increase the costs of living. That is why it is so important to research which services are included in the rent and which are not, but that are nonetheless available to you when you decide to move into a residence.<\/p>\n There really is something for everyone. That being said, nobody is obligated to participate in any activity that doesn\u2019t interest him or her.<\/p>\n Especially when the weather is bad, you will be grateful to have so many services all in one place. Living in a residence also gives you the chance to prevent feelings of loneliness that can sometimes arise as we age, by discovering new things with other residents. You will also feel safe in a residence. And don\u2019t worry, you can come and go as you please, you don\u2019t need to ask anyone\u2019s permission.<\/p>\n By asking yourself a few questions, you can easily identify your preferences and your requirements, determine the kind of place you would like to retire in and at the same time, avoid moving unnecessarily.<\/p>\n Where would you like to live? Are you looking for a peaceful environment or one that is livelier? Do you want to live close to your children, your family and friends? Do you want to live close to a particular shopping area, hospital, church, park, bicycle path or maybe public transportation?<\/p><\/blockquote>\n Once you have chosen the neighbourhood, think about the type of accommodations<\/strong><\/em> you\u2019re looking for.<\/p>\n Would you prefer to live in a high-rise or a smaller, more intimate residence? Are you looking for a studio apartment or a condo? Do you want a spare room for your friends or your grandchildren? Are you looking to meet new people or do you prefer your privacy? Some people prefer to put their money toward their homes rather than activities or going out and vice versa.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n Don\u2019t forget to ensure that you will have enough space for the belongings you absolutely want to keep. Do you prefer physical activity or cultural outings? Will you want to participate in organized outings or activities? Do you want to take care of your space by yourself and make your own meals? Do you need someone to accompany you on outings? Do you need a parking spot for your vehicle?<\/p><\/blockquote>\n Other Important Questions<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Can you stay in this place if your health deteriorates? If yes, under which conditions? What are the internal rules of the residence? Can you bring your pet with you? Lastly, evaluate the state of your health<\/strong><\/em> and that of your spouse.<\/p>\n Does one of you need medical surveillance, help with daily activities or special medical attention? Do you think you might need care for a shorter or longer period of time? It\u2019s important to keep the other person\u2019s needs in mind and to consider that your situation may change.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n Choosing a residence for autonomous and semi-autonomous people could be your best choice. That being said, don\u2019t wait until the last minute to decide, like if you\u2019re ill or grieving. Your choices will be biased because you will feel emotional and then your decisions will inevitably influence your future quality of life. That\u2019s why it\u2019s important to take the time to research all of your options carefully.<\/p>\n
\nLiving in a Retirement Home Could Be Perfect for you<\/strong><\/p>\n
\nSo, you\u2019ve been thinking about moving to a retirement home for a while but you\u2019re worried that you\u2019re too alert or too healthy to live in a residence for seniors? You couldn\u2019t be more wrong! The days of gloomy hospices and sad \u201cold folks homes\u201d are long gone.<\/p>\n
\nThe market is actually quite diverse and has something for everyone\u2019s preferences and budgets. Finding a residence in the private sector is easier because you can select among more or less luxurious, spacious and expensive accommodations.
\nSome buildings have fewer than 100 units, others more than 800. Some residences also offer services exclusively for autonomous people, others for autonomous and semi-autonomous people, meaning those who need some help to perform certain daily tasks: making meals, getting dressed, bathing, etc.<\/p>\n
\nThe Benefits of Living in a Residence<\/strong><\/p>\n
\nIn a residence, you can rent a studio apartment or a condo with 2 to 4 rooms. You can also take care of your apartment yourself and make yourself meals if that\u2019s what you prefer.<\/p>\n
\nAvailable Services<\/strong><\/p>\n
\nWhen you live in a residence for seniors, you can take advantage of the many services that are offered to residents:<\/p>\n\n
\nYou May Need Time to Adjust to Living in a Residence<\/strong><\/p>\n
\nOn the other hand, there are some people \u2013 very much accustomed to living in an individual house \u2013 that may find it difficult to find themselves with many other retirees under the same roof. They may feel that they no longer have any privacy. This is totally normal. It will take time to adjust to your new surroundings!<\/p>\n
\nTips on How to Make the Right Choice<\/strong><\/p>\n
\nAfter making the choice to move into a residence and before starting to plan your move, it\u2019s really important to identify your needs. This essential step will help you choose the residence that will suit you best. You should take the following into consideration:<\/p>\n\n
\nTake Your Time Before Choosing Your Residence<\/strong><\/p>\n
\nFirst of all, think about location<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n
\nAnother important thing to keep in mind are the services that you will need. It\u2019s easy to be drawn to a residence with a swimming pool but if you only use it a few times a year then you\u2019re paying a lot of money for an unnecessary expense. That money could have been put toward an activity that is more meaningful.
\nAsk yourself which activities<\/strong><\/em> you want to do.<\/p>\n
\nIs there a meeting room where you could host your family? Can you invite your friends and family over to eat? Is there a possibility of getting an apartment with a balcony where you could grow a few plants?<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
\nOnce you have established what your priorities are \u2013 make a list of what you want and don\u2019t want \u2013 it will be easier to find residences that have what you\u2019re looking for and you can choose through a process of elimination.<\/p>\n
\nThere you have it! You\u2019re ready for the next step: visiting the residences in person. Take the time to choose carefully, it\u2019s a very important decision that you\u2019re making. Write down the questions you need to ask. Take the time to meet the staff and some of the residents. Stay long enough that you can get a sense of what the residence is like. Check the cleanliness of the residence and make sure that the services advertised are actually offered.<\/p>\n