Why You Shouldn’t Wait for a Crisis: 10+ Reasons to Move into a Retirement Community Before an Accident Occurs
Change and new experiences can be a wonderful part of life. Still, it can sometimes be hard to think about moving to a retirement community from your home where you’ve built memories and a comforting sense of familiarity.
You may think, “I’m not ready yet.” Or maybe you’re waiting until you need to move for health or other reasons.
The truth is that everyone’s needs and motivations are different. But one thing is clear: Moving before a crisis or accident occurs can empower you to make decisions on your terms. Plus, you can have more time to enjoy the benefits of senior living like greater engagement and socialization—which have been shown to have positive effects on health and happiness.
What Is the Best Age to Move to a Retirement Community?
Finding the “right time” to move can depend on your individual goals. At our Era Living communities, our youngest residents are in their early to mid-60s, and our oldest residents are in their 100s—with residents of all ages in between.
As described by one of our Aljoya Thornton Place residents in an online review,
My mother entered a retirement facility in her nineties. I felt she would have enjoyed it far more had she done this in her seventies or eighties when she would have been able to take full advantage of the community and its offerings. I look at Aljoya as an exciting next step in my life, rather than a ‘last resort.’
So what will “being ready” feel like for you? And how might you find your greatest happiness in this chapter of your life?
Here are some factors to consider—including 10+ advantages of moving before a crisis occurs.
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You stay in control.
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What kind of lifestyle do you want? What kind of floor plan works best for you? Do you have a pet that you want to bring with you? Planning a move on your time gives you greater control and helps to avoid decisions made in a crisis.
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You’ll make the transition easier.
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Everything is easier when you’re feeling well—and a move is no exception. Sometimes it’s necessary to move after an illness or injury—and that’s okay. However, if you plan your move when you’re feeling healthy, you can be better equipped to embrace your new surroundings physically and emotionally.
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Prevent isolation.
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According to the National Institute on Aging, many adults age 65 and older are socially isolated and regularly feel lonely—which can be linked to health issues like heart disease, depression, and cognitive decline. At a retirement living community, you can find instant friends, group activities, and events to help you stay as engaged and active as you choose to be.
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Proactive health support.
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Our Era Living communities offer an abundance of fitness and wellness classes that can support greater health and independence. Residents can also enjoy access to resources like our on-site Wellness Centers and our collaboration with the University of Washington, which helps to support innovative wellness and active aging programs.
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Less stress for loved ones.
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Finding a supportive community can help reduce your stress levels and can also reassure your family and friends—who may need to step in if a crisis arises. A benefit of communities like ours is that they offer a continuum of care options, with greater support available if your needs change.
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Built-in safety features.
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Safety features like grab bars, wider hallways, good lighting, and emergency call systems can go a long way in helping to improve safety and prevent accidents. Especially later in life, mishaps like falls can be serious. At Era Living, we have designed our communities around our residents’ needs to help make everyday life as easy and safe as possible.
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Maintain independence.
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It’s understandable to worry about your independence when leaving your longtime home. But the truth is that retirement living communities can often improve your independence by allowing you to access things like chef-inspired meals, community events, local outings, and supportive services without relying on family and friends.
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No more home maintenance.
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Say goodbye to yardwork, grocery shopping, and other home maintenance activities that can be stressful and sometimes even dangerous to do. At an Era Living retirement community, you can put these kinds of household worries aside and focus on the things you enjoy.
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Enjoy a more active life.
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Literary scholar C.S. Lewis once famously said, ‘“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” Your retirement years can be an ideal time to try a new activity, hobby, or meet new friends. Our senior living communities put a wealth of activities, amenities, programs, clubs, and social events at your fingertips.
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Smarter financial planning.
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Unexpected accidents or hospital stays can quickly become expensive. Planning your move early can help you better understand your costs and options and choose what works best for you.
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Peace of mind for the future.
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Knowing you’re in a safe, supportive environment can offer invaluable peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Plus, with Era Living, you can rest easier knowing that our communities offer services and senior housing options for different stages of aging, including:
Explore Your Options at Era Living
Knowing when you’re ready for a retirement community is a personal decision. As you consider your options, it can be helpful to talk about your goals and plans with those you love. What kind of a support role do they play in your life? Also, do you have a plan in place to address things like transportation and meals if a crisis occurs?
As many of our residents will attest, it’s important to know that you don’t need to wait for an accident or injury before you consider an Era Living Seattle retirement community. In fact, the sooner you make the move, the sooner you can start enjoying all that we have to offer!
Whether you’re considering senior independent living or another care option, we invite you to visit us to learn more. Individuals and couples can choose from multiple housing choices and settings in our eight premier retirement communities.
Take the next step in planning your future and schedule a tour today!
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