There’s a good chance that you’re at that stage in your life where you’re looking at senior living communities. Your parents might need special care, or you’re preparing for your own retirement. Whatever the reason, there are a lot of retirement communities to choose from.
It’s challenging choosing the right facility. Today’s seniors are very particular about where and how they’ll spend their golden years. They’re more active and want to continue living a full life. They want a community that can provide them with more than the basic needs. They want independence, comfort, and convenience, and they are also looking for specific services and amenities.
Here are the top must-have senior amenities in your senior living facility.
Various Housing Options
Many retirees from the Baby Boomer generation are choosing independent living. They want a living arrangement that fits their personalities. Many senior housing companies address this preference by designing different housing options. Some facilities have all their residents in one apartment building, while others offer small homes in a campus-style community. Many retirees prefer a place that offers private residences and assisted living options. This allows for a smooth transition if circumstances change.
Designs for apartments or homes should ensure privacy but have the resident’s safety in mind. The layout should be open to reducing accidents. Most living spaces don’t have a kitchen, but there are provisions for a microwave or a refrigerator. Some facilities allow residents to have a pet.
Space to Socialize
We are all social beings. Even introverts need to have some interaction with other people. Socialization becomes more important as we get older. There are several health benefits to this:
· Socialization keeps seniors’ mental faculties sharp and engaged.
· It reduces stress. This could result in a better immune system and cardiovascular health.
· A diverse social circle can encourage older adults to exercise more.
· It lowers the risk of depression and anxiety attacks.
· Socializing on a regular basis boosts a person’s self-esteem.
Every senior care facility has social spaces. The challenge is finding a place that offers the type of activities you like. Ask your senior living advisor about the social events the community provides.
Space for FunLife should be fun, especially when you are retired. Senior living consultants understand why communities need spaces designed for fun. There should be a common room where residents can play cards or board games. Some even have a cocktail lounge for those who prefer to socialize while having a nightcap. Facilities also bring in special entertainment, like choral groups or musicians. They can also organize plays or small concerts.
Good Dining Choices
A great senior community should be able to provide a good dining experience. It’s one of the top amenities older adults expect. You want a senior center that eschews frozen dinners and offers more than buffets. Many baby boomers are very conscious about their food intake.
They also want variety. Today’s retirement communities offer restaurant-style dining rooms, and some even have cafes and restaurants. These cater to varying health needs and preferences.
Robust Health and Wellness Facilities
An ideal senior living community has amenities for wellness and fun. There should be exercise facilities. Swimming pools and therapy pools are also good to have. Many retirement communities are now investing in the outdoors. They have gardens where residents can indulge their love for plants. There are jogging and walking trails to encourage people to go out.
There should also be facilities to stimulate the minds of the residents. Check if there’s a well-stocked library and a computer center. Even a community theater is not unusual in these places. It provides entertainment and a chance to indulge in the arts. The best care centers even provide specialized activities to help with memory management. A specialist manages these activities. They build self-esteem and help maintain the dignity of residents with memory issues.
Personalized Care
Residents in senior communities need different levels of care. Many older people need minimal help, like dressing up or medication management. Others might ask a nurse to bathe them or administer certain medicines. You want the facility you’re choosing to be able to provide the right type of care, both physical and emotional.
The design of the whole facility ensures every resident receives the right services and equipment. It means plenty of space for wheelchairs and walkers. Handrails and grab bars in bathrooms. Call buttons in every room. Floors should have non-slip covers.
Good Housekeeping and Security Measures
Our elderly loved ones are always insisting on independence. But they also don’t want to deal with mundane daily tasks. Good housekeeping should be the main consideration in your search. You should also include a robust security system. Look for a senior facility that offers regular housekeeping. Housekeepers should clean the rooms every day and change linens at least once a week.
You also want a place that prioritizes your loved one’s safety. 24/7 security is a must. There should be security cameras and a system that tracks visitors. Hallways and streets should be well lit to prevent accidents.
Did you find the article informative? Then you should also read this post on How Senior Living Communities Work.
Helping Others Live Their Sunset Years in Style
Retirement shouldn’t stop people from living their best life. Apricus Senior Living aims to make those years memorable for everyone. We are one of Florida’s top consulting companies. Our services include building construction and management. We also offer franchise opportunities. Do you want to invest in the senior living industry? You can get in touch with us at 386-256-2015. You can also send us a message at madisongreystreet@icloud.com.