If you are thinking it might be time to choose a more carefree, supportive lifestyle for yourself or for a loved one, you may feel unsure about what your next move should be.
One way to approach the senior living decision is to ask yourself a few important questions that can help you have a clear idea of what you really want—so you can make a decision that truly lets you live well and live better.
Does it feel like the right time to make the senior living decision?
You might be considering an independent living community. Today’s modern independent living communities offer a range of exceptional services and amenities that make daily life easier and free you to discover new opportunities. It can be an exciting opportunity to use all your talents and wisdom and embrace life as never before. Before making the senior living decision, ask yourself a few questions.
- Has home maintenance become overwhelming?
Repairing the roof. Maintaining the lawn and garden. Doing the housekeeping and laundry. Arranging service calls for heating, air conditioning, plumbing, and so on. Details upon details that never seem to stop. And that’s not all.
Consider the safety hazards involved if you or your parents attempt to handle these chores alone. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults. Personal safety is an important factor to include in the senior living decision.
- Is there a need for more socialization?
Does it sometimes feel isolation is becoming the norm for you or an older loved one? Not only can it feel lonely to not be around people you enjoy, but it can also actually harm your mental, physical, and emotional health. In fact, the US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy has even declared loneliness an epidemic. The need to be around others you enjoy on a regular basis is a top reason why the right senior living decision is so important.
- Are you getting enough physical activity?
A lifestyle that includes regular physical activity can help you maintain strength, flexibility and balance, which makes it easier for you to avoid many age-related health problems. Not only is exercise good for you, but it can also be a great way to make friends and benefit from being around others who want to stay healthy as well. Whether it’s walking, chair yoga, strength-training, or line dancing, moving more can mean less joint pain and stiffness.
At Avalon Park, our fitness and wellness center is a great place to kickstart a new fitness program or continue the one you’re on. Classes, senior-friendly equipment, personal instruction, and a great atmosphere for pursuing healthy aging and longevity—great things to keep in mind when making the senior living decision.
Download our guide to Choosing the Right Community.
- Is proper nutrition becoming an issue?
As we grow older, the body’s ability to absorb certain nutrients decreases. That makes it even more essential to eat a balanced diet—with the right amounts of calcium, fiber, iron and potassium for starters. This is especially true for those who have chronic health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease, making nutrition in older adults a major factor in longevity and quality of life.
But for many older adults, it can become difficult or even impossible to get proper nutrition, due to problems getting to a market or preparing a meal, as well as the boredom and frustration of dining alone.
Residents of senior living communities, however, have the advantage of knowing their meals are prepared by a culinary team that understands the importance of blending proper nutrition with exceptional taste and flavor. In addition, isn’t it much more enjoyable when you can share a meal with friends and family in a comfortable, inviting environment?
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- Could you or a loved one benefit from easy access to supportive care?
It’s always good to have a plan in your pocket, especially when it comes to possible changes in your health or the health of a loved one. Choosing the right retirement address can give you that peace of mind, and you don’t have to give up the vibrant lifestyle you love.
For instance, at Avalon Park Independent Living Community, should your health needs ever change, a local health and home care provider has an office right on our campus. They will be happy to arrange appropriate care and support to be delivered right in the comfort of your apartment.
Make the decision that is right for you
Leave behind the worries and boredom of living alone. Give yourself or a loved one a vibrant, active lifestyle with the reassurance of easy access to supportive care if needed. Live well, live better at Avalon Park!
The choices are almost endless at Avalon Park. Avalon Park in Cottleville is a great retirement lifestyle.
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