When Is the Right Time to Move to Senior Living?

Are you wondering whether senior living might be the right fit for you? It’s a common question among older adults: When is the ideal time to consider making the transition? Whether you’re questioning if it’s too soon to start planning or curious about the optimal age for Independent Living, you’re not alone.

In this article, we offer insights and information to empower you to make a decision with confidence and how to begin planning.

What Is Independent Living?

Independent Living allows older adults to reside in single-family homes, townhomes, or apartments within a community setting where they can enjoy robust programming and maintenance-free living. Some communities also offer other levels of living that enable residents to remain in the community even if your needs evolve. Perhaps your spouse and you require different care needs – then it would be important to choose a community that can accommodate your situation.

At Edgehill, we offer a comprehensive array of care services through our Lifecare program, ensuring residents have access to the support they need, when they need it. Our continuum of care includes Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care as well as Sub-acute Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing.

When Can You Move into an Independent Living Community?

Independent communities are home to people of various ages, including extremely active folks looking for a vibrant network of peers and programming. At Edgehill, we are a community that offers a sophisticated retirement living with superior amenities, gorgeous surroundings and impeccable service for individuals 62 years and older.

When Should You Consider Moving to Independent Living?

Whether you’re 62 and working full time, or 75 and looking to lighten your daily responsibilities and spend more time socializing with peers, an Independent Living community may be the perfect place to call home.

If you’re trying to determine when to move to Independent Living, consider whether any of these statements is true for you:

• You’re ready to downsize and want to simplify your expenses.
• You’re ready to enjoy maintenance-free living.
• You want access to a pool, fitness center, walking trails, or other amenities.
• You want to be surrounded by a close-knit community of peers.
• You want easy access to a helping hand from associates when you need it.
• You want to settle into a community where you can take advantage of a continuum of care if your needs change.

That last item is an important consideration if you’re on the fence about the best time to move into Independent Living. At Edgehill, we offer a program of care tailored just for you and your evolving needs.

Your Community Search

Before an actual move to senior living occurs, you will need to select a community that will best fit you or your loved one’s needs. This can take time but is well worth the effort. Considerations include level of care, staff, amenities, environment, activities and entertainment, cost, location and more.

When searching for the senior living community that will become your next home, it’s important to thoroughly explore various aspects to ensure it aligns with your needs and desires. Visit websites, read reviews, schedule tours and engage with residents and staff. Consider what matters most to you at this stage of life.

Explore, Experience and Engage

Scheduling a tour and attending special events is a great way to immerse yourself in the community atmosphere. Get to know both residents and associates to gain insights for your decision. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and take notes so you can compare the things that are most important to you.

Enjoy a meal to get a taste of the dining options, explore the amenities and services offered – take a class in the fitness center or swimming pool. Look for a diverse range of activities catered to your interests, whether it’s gardening, art classes, or book clubs, which is key to active aging and social engagement. Consider communities that emphasize continuous learning opportunities, such as lectures, workshops and educational programs, to stimulate your mind and promote personal growth.

At Edgehill, residents enjoy maintenance-free living, including weekly housekeeping and maintenance. With chores like yard work and home upkeep handled, they can stay active physically and intellectually taking part in our daily programs and activities.

By thoroughly assessing these offerings and aligning them with your lifestyle and interests, you can find a senior living community that truly feels like home.

Next Steps

As you contemplate the transition to a senior living community, it’s essential to prepare yourself for the journey ahead. How much time and energy do you currently invest in caring for your home? Is it hindering you from enjoying the activities you love? Are you able to engage in an active lifestyle, socialize with friends and explore new places, or do household responsibilities consume most of your time? If yes is the answer, then now is the time to start planning.

Begin by organizing and decluttering your home and discussing your plans with family. Explore various communities to find the one that suits your needs. Finding the right senior living community is a big decision, but with careful exploration, you can find the timing that feels right and the perfect place that feels like home.

At Edgehill, you will continue to live life to its fullest, the way you are accustomed to living it. Enjoy gourmet food, first-class services and amenities and a dynamic team of associates that anticipate your every need.