How to Choose the Right Retirement Community
With a senior population of nearly 1.5 million, the need for great retirement homes in Wisconsin is obvious.
If you've got a loved one in need of a senior community guide, we can help. There are plenty of senior communities available, but not all of them offer the same type or quality of services. To find the best retirement communities, you need to understand your needs and what to look for in a great community.
In today's post, we'll give you retirement community tips to help you find the best retirement community for your loved one. Choosing senior living can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. Keep reading and you'll have a roadmap for finding your loved one a community they can thrive in for years to come.
Assess Your Loved One's Needs
To assess your loved one's needs, start by considering their health and mobility. Do they need help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, or eating? This will help determine if they need an independent living community or assisted living.
Next, think about their social needs. Do they enjoy being around others or prefer privacy? Find a community that offers the right balance of activities and quiet time.
Lastly, consider their medical needs. If they have chronic conditions, check if the community provides medical care or has easy access to doctors. For example, memory care is the best choice for seniors dealing with Alzheimer's -- which affects 120,000 seniors in Wisconsin, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
Choose the Right Location
Location is very important when choosing a retirement community. It should be close to family and friends so your loved one can easily receive visits and support. Being near hospitals and doctors is also key to health needs.
Consider the weather and environment. A community in a pleasant area with outdoor activities can improve their quality of life.
Also, think about local services. Is it close to shopping centers, restaurants, or parks? A convenient location can make the transition to assisted living much easier.
Prioritize Reputation
Ratings and reviews play a key role when choosing a retirement community. They offer helpful insights from people who have firsthand experience. If any red flags show up in the reviews, they can help you narrow your search down.
Start by checking online testimonials and reviews on websites or social media. Look for comments about the following:
- Quality of care
- Cleanliness
- Staff friendliness
Positive reviews can help you feel confident in your choice.
Also, talk to current residents or their families. Their experiences can give you a clear picture of what living there is really like. You can ask about daily life and any concerns they may have.
Remember, while reviews are helpful, they should be considered along with other factors. Always visit the community yourself to get a true feel for the environment.
Tour Multiple Communities
During an initial retirement community tour, pay attention to the cleanliness and general condition of the surroundings. Are the common areas tidy and well-maintained? Look for any signs of wear or neglect that could indicate poor care.
Observe how the staff interacts with residents. Are they friendly and attentive? A caring staff is important for your loved one's well-being.
Take note of the size and layout of the living spaces. Are the rooms comfortable and easy to navigate? Also, ask about the types of activities and programs offered to keep residents engaged.
Check the safety features, like handrails and emergency call systems. Make sure the environment feels secure and easy for seniors to move around.
Lastly, see if the atmosphere feels welcoming and enjoyable for your loved one.
Look at the Activity Calendar
Daily activities are important for both physical and mental health in a retirement community. They help keep residents active, prevent boredom, and encourage social interaction. Physical activities, like walking or yoga, can improve mobility and overall health.
Mental stimulation is also key. Activities like puzzles, games, or art classes keep the brain engaged and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Social activities, such as group outings or events, can help prevent loneliness and keep residents connected.
When choosing a community, look at the activity calendar. It should offer a variety of options that match your loved one's interests and abilities. A well-planned schedule shows that the community values its residents' health and well-being.
Evaluate Costs and Budget
When evaluating retirement community costs, start by understanding all the fees involved. Some communities have basic fees, while others charge extra for services like meals or medical care. Be sure to ask for a detailed list of costs.
Next, compare the costs to your budget. Determine what you can afford and make sure there are no hidden fees. Remember to factor in extra costs like transportation or special care needs.
Choosing a community within your budget will help avoid financial stress. Make sure your loved one gets the best care while staying within your financial limits.
Examine Safety and Security
Safety and security are very important when choosing a retirement community. Look for specific features, like
- Emergency call buttons
- Secure entryways
- Good lighting in hallways and outdoor areas
- 24/7 staff availability in case of emergencies
Check if there are regular safety checks and if residents feel comfortable in their living space. You can ask about safety measures during your tour and listen to what current residents say.
Choosing a community with strong safety and security ensures your loved one will be cared for and protected at all times. It's important for peace of mind.
Find the Best Retirement Community in Burlington
Use these tips and advice as a guide to finding the best retirement community for your loved one. This isn't a decision to take lightly, so take your time and find retirement homes that best suit their needs.
For seniors in Burlington, WI, the best choice for retirement living will always be Arbor View. We're a welcoming assisted living community with highly trained staff and comfortable surroundings.
Let us help your loved one enjoy their golden years. Contact us today to book a tour.