Where to Live After Retirement

Planning your living arrangements after retirement isn’t easy, but ensuring your dignity and comfort as you reach your golden years is necessary. Many residential options exist depending on the level of assistance you might need. No matter your choice of living arrangements after retirement, you should make sure that you have lasting power of attorney set up. You need to have people who can speak for you and with you, supporting you throughout your retirement, even when you wait for as long as possible to retire!

Understanding these options will help you make the best decision on where to live after retirement. Here are some tips from Caregiver Support Services to get you started.

Creating a Senior-Friendly Home to Age in Place

Many people don’t want to leave the home where they raised a family. However, you can continue living in your home by hiring professionals for a few modifications. The average cost to modify your home to age in place is $3,000 to $15,000. Changes might include installing smart home systems, making bath and shower upgrades, and widening doors. As you age, you may need assistance with everyday tasks like meal preparation and household chores. Some help can come from relatives or hiring assistants for these daily aspects of living.

Buying a More Accessible Home

Some people opt to downsize to a smaller home with senior-friendly modifications in place, though it’s a good idea to start by calculating the equity of your current home so you’ll know what you have to work with. Also, some financial lenders are wary of issuing a 30-year mortgage to someone over age 50. And while you would have your independence, a sizeable long-term purchase can take its toll on your retirement savings.

The Different Types of Senior Living Options

There are several living options tailored to your needs when aging in place is not a viable solution.

• Independent Living. Independent living communities are for seniors who still maintain an active and social lifestyle. Many campuses offer residents housekeeping, linen, and transportation services. Amenities such as dining, fitness centers, and activities or classes often support an active lifestyle.
• Assisted Living. Assisted living is the right choice if you require assistance with activities of daily living such as dressing, bathing, and mobility. Assisted living communities often offer similar amenities to independent living, allowing for an active, social lifestyle.
• Skilled Nursing. These facilities are for individuals who require 24-hour care from trained medical professionals. Often, rehabilitation services are in place since skilled nursing arrangements are usually temporary. On the other hand, nursing homes are considered a long-term solution for those requiring higher levels of care.
• Continuing Care Retirement Communities. CCRCs are retirement communities that provide all levels of senior living options, from independent to skilled nursing solutions. As your needs change, a CCRC can transition your level of care without needing to move to a different community.

Knowing the pros and cons of these options may ease any emotional reservations you might have about leaving your current home.

Finding a Viable Skilled Nursing Facility

The best way to find skilled nursing facilities is through word of mouth. Asking your friends, church members, and doctors may help you discover one. Be sure to look at facility reports and costs for each facility. If you are hospitalized before moving to skilled nursing, the hospital staff may assist with locating and transferring you to a suitable facility.

Aging in Place Is Possible

It’s possible to age in place and remain in familiar surroundings. It might only require a few home modifications. So use these tips to help you carefully weigh your options and plan in advance for the safe, dignified future you’ve earned.

Caregiver Support Services is proud to provide the resources and support that caregivers and their clients need. If you have any questions, please let us know!

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