Retirement Communities vs Living on Your Own: A Balanced Look
Living in a retirement community or senior citizen home can be a contentious decision. Many seniors find the prospect of living on their own challenging due to declining health and the need for assistance. In this article, we explore the pros and cons of both options, providing a balanced perspective to help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose a Retirement Community?
People often consider moving to a retirement community or senior citizen home because of the package of services and social opportunities that come with it. For instance, there is a couple I know who moved to a senior living facility when the wife could no longer load the dishwasher herself. The facility provided more than just housing; it offered a holistic living experience that catered to their needs.
Health Considerations
Health is a crucial factor to consider. If you are not in good health, you might require assistance sooner than expected. Living alone may pose significant risks, especially if you need help urgently but don’t have someone you trust nearby. In such cases, the freedom of living in your own home without relying on others might not be the safest option.
Convenience and Social Life
One of the main draws of living in a retirement community is the convenience and social opportunities. These facilities often provide meals, social activities, and access to healthcare services. This can be particularly appealing for those who enjoy a structured and supportive environment. For example, my wife and I live in an over-55 community with over 2700 homes. We own our house and enjoy the benefits without the drawbacks of a less desirable neighborhood.
Cost Considerations
Living in a retirement community or senior living facility comes with its costs. For instance, if you require extensive assistance, the financial burden might be too heavy to bear. Realistically, the costs can range from $50,000 to $100,000 per year. Therefore, it is essential to weigh the financial implications of this decision.
Living on Your Own
While retirement communities offer numerous benefits, some seniors prefer to live independently. This choice allows for complete control over one’s life and experiences. However, it also comes with potential drawbacks. In my case, following the untimely death of my long-term partner, I faced significant emotional challenges. The loneliness and lack of social interaction made it difficult to reengage with society.
Personal Experience
I eventually sold my home and moved into an assisted living facility called Sunrise. I was classified as 'independent' and received three meals a day and a small place to stay. The fact that I didn’t need assistance kept my monthly charges down to about $3200. I was able to retain my automobile, which was crucial for me.
Advantages of Independent Living
Living on your own has its advantages as well. For example, my wife and I live in a community where we have the freedom to come and go as we please. We enjoy all the benefits of living in any other subdivision without the negative aspects such as skateboarding children or gang violence. This sense of freedom can be invaluable to many seniors.
In conclusion, both living in a retirement community and living on your own have their merits and drawbacks. It is essential to carefully consider your health, financial situation, and social needs before making a decision. Whether you opt for a supportive environment or the freedom of independent living, the key is to make a choice that best suits your individual circumstances.