5 Considerations to Make Before Moving Into A Senior Living Community

Choosing a new home is never easy, but these five considerations to take into account before moving into senior living will help remove stress and make the process easier to navigate.

Moving preferences in senior living will look different for everyone. For some, a heated indoor pool is non-negotiable. For others, it’s essential to be within a 15-minute drive of family and friends. The level of care provided and staying within budget are critical for everyone. No matter your list, ask yourself the following five questions before moving into a senior living community. 

1. Where is it located?

This is an obvious question to ask, but it’s also an area where optimism can get in the way. No matter how well-intentioned family members are, they’ll visit more often if the drive is reasonable. If you’re already living away from family — and relying on technology to communicate — that might not be an issue, but it’s always one of the top senior living considerations that residents take into account. The other question to ask is if you like the general location. Are there interesting places to visit on outings? Are there attractions like restaurants or museums? 

2. What level of care are you looking for?

Keep in mind that you’re planning for both your current needs and any possible future needs.

Both independent and assisted living communities provide housing, support, and amenities to their residents. They are the perfect opportunity to downsize, allowing you to live in a home without the complexities of housekeeping and other chores. You will also be surrounded by a team of professionals who will give you the support you need, allowing you to live independently with minimized guidance.

However, there is a notable difference between the two. Independent living is a great option if you don’t require constant health care and can move around freely on your own. Assisted living, on the other hand, is for those who enjoy living independently, but appreciate assistance with daily living activities.

3. What services and amenities are offered?

Senior living communities that offer a wide variety of services and amenities present seniors with a newfound freedom. Some communities can offer up to a dozen different activities each day, ranging from a flower club, art classes, and morning yoga to technology services, lectures, and regular happy hours.

The best senior living communities resemble resorts more than they do the “nursing homes”, a common misconception. Ask to see a community’s calendar of events, like this one from Winchester Gardens in Maplewood, New Jersey. If you find yourself excited about all of the activities offered, you know you’ve found a potential good fit. Moving into a senior living community should feel like a fresh start full of new opportunities.

4. How much does it cost?

This question may seem like the bottom line, but the line might not be as black and white as you may think. The best senior living communities offer help and resources to assist you in making the right financial choices for you and your family. At Springpoint Senior Living Communities, for example, there’s a team of people available to guide you through the process.

5. Does it feel like home?

While the other senior living considerations on this PDF are fairly objective, finding a place that feels like home to you is far more subjective. And the only real way to answer this question is to visit for yourself.

Walk the halls and see if people smile at you. Visit the fitness center and observe what kind of workouts people are doing. If they have one, visit the library or woodworking studio. Better yet, ask to meet with a current resident or two. 

Why Choose Winchester Gardens

Located in Maplewood, New Jersey, Winchester Gardens offers senior living services and amenities that let you live your best life throughout retirement. From our lush grounds and historic great hall to our modern fitness center and healthcare facilities, we seek to enable residents to make the most of every day. Contact us today with any questions or to schedule a tour.