It is a tough decision to leave a home that has been your safe haven for many years. When the time comes you may ask yourself “should I stay in my home or move into a retirement community?” You should weigh the pros and cons and then move in because you want to, and not wait until you have to.

DON'T WAIT TOO LONG

Recently BCSLA member communities interviewed their residents and this is what they heard. “Don’t wait too long! Move in when you are healthy and active and able to participate in the activities available.” 

Over and over again from BCSLA communities this is the message we heard. The residents also stated: “Imagine the freedom you will feel with not having to attend to household chores and simply spend your time doing the things you enjoy or things you have always wanted to try but never had the time.”

The resulting benefits for seniors are that they are able to remain independent, engaged, and vital much longer. Their physical health often remains stronger due to healthier eating and an active lifestyle. - See more at: http://sites.mediaplanet.com/ca/retirement/retirement-communities-why-didnt-i-move-sooner#sthash.bjsVdfp0.dpuf

The resulting benefits for seniors are that they are able to remain independent, engaged, and vital much longer. Their physical health often remains stronger due to healthier eating and an active lifestyle.

INDEPENDENT LIVING

It was also shared that the biggest misconception was that retirement communities were care homes, and that seniors would lose their independence and feel trapped and structured. The fact is: it’s the complete opposite.

The criteria to move into an Independent Living and Assisted Living community are that you must be able to direct your own life and your own care.

This means you live like you would in your own home, only you are in a communal senior environment that provides hospitality services like meals, housekeeping, safety and security and assistance if required.

The resulting benefits for seniors are that they are able to remain independent, engaged, and vital much longer. Their physical health often remains stronger due to healthier eating and an active lifestyle. They maintain better cognitive skills through social interaction and mental stimulus. Both lead to increased quality and longevity of life.

THE CHOICE IS YOURS

My mother moved into a retirement community at 86 and just turned 95 this year. She often tells me while initially she did not want to leave her home until she became an active member in her new home (the retirement community), she never realized how isolated she really was in her family home.

My mom has made very good friends and at 95 is healthy active and still very much engaged in her life. What about you? Do you want to be happy healthy and engaged in your life in your golden years?   

By: Marlene Williams
editorial@mediaplanet.com