Choosing the right retirement home for a loved one is a major, life-changing decision, that carries both emotional and practical considerations. This requires you to find balance between ensuring your loved ones’ comfort and the estates’ ability to meet their current and future healthcare needs, all whilst considering their current quality of life and personal preferences. The process might seem daunting, given the multitude of options available and the various factors that must be weighed.
Retirement estates, also referred to as retirement homes, senior living communities, or nursing homes, all cater to the health and well-being of seniors. Whether they are able-bodied or require assistance, or perhaps need specialised medical care. As life expectancy increases and the senior population grows, so too does the demand for quality retirement living, making it more important than ever to be well-informed about the options and criteria for selection. In this article, we will take a closer look at several factors that will ensure the comfort, safety, and well-being of our loved ones.
Here are some key factors to consider
What type of unit do you need?
Before you book your tour of a potential retirement estate, you should have established the type of lifestyle you or your loved one would like to have and the type of healthcare you would need. Here are a few questions you should ask yourself to help narrow down the search:
- What size must the living space be to remain comfortable?
- Do I require one or more bedrooms and bathrooms?
- Do I require additional storage?
- Do I require a ground floor unit, or can I have a first or second floor unit?
- Will there be a garage or protected parking for my vehicle?
- What type of healthcare services are available at the estate?
- How easy is it to change my living situation to cater for my healthcare needs?
These questions will provide you with the necessary insights you need to find the right estate and of course determine your budget.
What healthcare services are available?
Looking at the healthcare services offered by the estate is the next step you should take. You or your loved one may not require any assistance now, but in the future it may be a possibility, and you do not want to be limited by the estate. Find out what on-site services are offered by the estate, what healthcare facilities and personnel are available, and whether you can bring in your own carer if necessary.
You should also confirm what the processes are involved in transitioning from assisted living to frail care. Additionally, you need to understand what the financial implications are from transitioning from your current living to assisted living or perhaps frail care.
What safety feature are offered by the estate?
Security is a significant feature, especially if you live alone. It is crucial to investigate if you want a lock-up-and-go lifestyle for travelling or if you need something a little more robust. Gated communities provide an extra layer of security, allowing you to travel freely within the community and rest easy at night without fear of break-ins.
Consider whether security measures are in place within your unit or home to ensure there are no trip or slip hazards, and if the shower or bath has been modified to accommodate a railing or chair.
Additionally, assess if there are any steps in or around your potential new home and if there are lifts or stair lifts to assist you.
What services and facilities are available?
Retirement estates often provide a variety of facilities and amenities for residents to remain engaged and entertained. These facilities or amenities can range from swimming pools, community centres, hair salons, community kitchens, dining rooms, garden maintenance services, property maintenance services, transport services, and social activities etc.
It is recommended to make a list of your current and potential future physical, health, emotional, and financial needs and decide if the estate you are considering can fulfil these needs.
Consider the list of facilities or services and select the ones that are important to you, such as a swimming pool, fitness centre, library, visitor parking, aerobic or other exercise classes, art or therapy classes, transport to local shopping or medical centres, public dining rooms, private dining rooms for entertaining friends or family, hairdresser and beauty salon, on-site management, surveillance cameras, security screens or emergency buttons in units, and on-site nurse and medical facilities.
Pet friendly
For many people, pets are an essential part of the family and contribute significantly to a happy and emotionally healthy life. While some villages allow pets, it is crucial to ask about their pet policy and obtain a written copy before making your decision.
Consider the following questions:
- What rules apply to your existing pets? Can you bring them with you when you move?
- What happens when these pets pass away? Are you permitted to get a new pet?
- Are there specific rules regarding the types and sizes of pets allowed?
- Are there designated areas for pets within the village?
Conclusion
It is very important to do all of the above research before committing to a retirement estate to ensure that you spend the latter years of your life in an environment that is totally suited to your current and future lifestyle and health needs. Taking the time to thoroughly evaluate potential retirement estates will help you avoid future regrets and ensure a smooth transition.
By understanding the various options and considering factors such as medical care, amenities, security, and pet policies, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your current and future needs. Additionally, this research will provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones, knowing that you are in a place where you can live comfortably, safely, and happily.
Ultimately, investing the effort upfront can lead to a fulfilling and enriching retirement experience, allowing you to enjoy this phase of life to the fullest.
Contact Lonehill Manor Retirement Village to book your viewing of our amazing estate today!
