Issue link: https://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/1008482
SANTA CRUZ SENTINEL FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018 LIVE IT UP! 3 I t's time! You or a loved one are finally considering moving to a Senior Living Community. Just think of the freedom you will have. You've worked hard all your life and the thought of being free from the daily chores of everyday life— meal planning, home repairs, and maintenance is liberating. It's time to meet new friends, learn a new hobby, and participate in new activities! Senior Living Communities are a wonderful way to live comfortably and burden-free. However, finding the perfect community can seem daunting. There is location to consider, the level of care and independence you are looking for, and so much more. These ideas will help guide you in the right direction. 1) Referrals When looking for a Senior Living Community a good place to start is to ask your family and friends or valued advisors for their recommendations. The internet, local newspapers and publications, as well as senior network groups can also provide helpful information. 2) Touring Communities Once you have a list of communities, call and set up an appointment for a tour. Touring the communities is a vital part of this process and is a free service. Make sure you take notes as you will be given a lot of information. Bringing a friend or relative for a second opinion and support will be helpful. During the tour, look for the cleanliness and comfort of the community, quality of the food, friendliness of the staff, and what activities are offered. Be sure to talk with the residents that live there. They have already gone through the process and can provide a wealth of information. Plan on spending at least an hour at the community and try to have a meal there. 3) Services Provided Does this Senior Living Community meet all of your needs? Does it provide the services you are looking for? For example – meal preparation, transportation, entertainment, safety, housekeeping, laundry and maintenance? What about the social, cultural and recreational opportunities? Be sure to ask how often housekeeping is provided for your personal living space. Make sure to get complete details on the type of maintenance and services provided in your contract. 4) Outdoor Amenities Be sure to check out the common areas outside of the main building. Are there comfortable places to sit? Is there shade? Are there outdoor activities that you might participate in? 5) Safety and Security Ask in detail about all the safety and security features available to you. Is there a registered nurse on site? Are the bathrooms clean, accessible and safe? Is there security staff available and at what times? Is there an evacuation protocol in case of an emergency? 6) Ask about changes to your needs as you age in place What happens when your health changes and you need more care? Is the community ready to help you with the difficult and important decision when that time comes? 7) Financial Details Another important aspect, of course, is financial. Is it a buy-in? Do you have to sign a lease? Is it month-to-month? What are the up- front entrance fees? What amenities are included in the base price? You will likely find that you will spend less per month living in a Senior Living Community that takes care of all of your needs rather than staying in a home that needs continual maintenance and repairs! Finding the right senior community takes a little work, but once you've made the move you and your loved one can finally relax, let go of the chores of daily life and enjoy life like never before and have the freedom you've been waiting for! BY LISA CLARKE, COMMUNITY RELATIONS & MARKETING MANAGER AT DOMINICAN OAKS BIGSTOCK.COM RETIRE? Isn't it About Time to