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The words "retirement community" might be in your future. Say it to many of today's seniors and the words are likely to conjure up images of vibrant people living in a community with amenities designed to keep them mentally, physically and spiritually active. The days of sitting around playing bridge are over, unless that's what you really want to do.
As baby boomers age, the senior population is increasing dramatically, and retirement communities designed for those older than 55 are hardly the place where people move to slow down. Those who move to such places generally don't need medical or personal assistance and often want to get more out of life.
Those searching for the next place to call home should consider many of the same things, and some of them are as basic as liking the food. Patrick Cobb, spokesman for AARP, said there are several things that can help families decide if a retirement community is the right one.
Ask for a trial stay over a weekend to decide if it's really the kind of community you want to live in, he said. Inquire about whether they allow pets. If you intend to invite friends and family to visit overnight, make sure they allow overnight guests.
Ask if the community provides transportation to grocery stores, doctors' appointments and social activities.
Those who are buying into a community in this sluggish real estate market and are trying to sell their own homes should inquire into the possibility of making a deal, Cobb said.
Can you sign a contract contingent on selling your current house? Will the community negotiate the price of your new home downward so that you can afford to make the move? Pay attention to homeowner covenants, restrictions and regime fees so that you gauge the true cost of living in the community.
And don't forget to evaluate safety issues, such as whether bathrooms are equipped with grab bars, lighting is sufficient to help avoid accidents and that stairs can be negotiated safely, he said.
EVALUATING COMMUNITY
"You can't just go in and say, 'Oh this looks like it would be a nice place for mom,'<2009>" said Maureen Maguire, owner of Senior Choice, a geriatric care management company. Families have to consider many factors when looking for a retirement facility.
The most important is how a senior will spend his or her days while living there, she said.
"Very often I am getting calls from adult children who say their parents are bored. Facilities need to have an activity therapist with a masters' degree in activity therapy," she said. "In addition, retirement facilities should encourage use of senior centers where residents can meet a wider cross-section of people and get different types of mental stimulation."
When evaluating a facility, visit it unannounced both on a weekday and during a weekend, Maguire said. Pay attention to whether thff looks you in the eye and greets you with a smile.
Take note of whether someone is available to give you a tour. Communities should have sufficient staff and administrative people to meet the residents' needs during weekends as well as on weekdays.
In addition, ask to speak with residents about life at the facility without the staff person standing within hearing range. And try to determine if residents' earlier life experiences complement those of the parent who would live there.
While costs are a big factor, the ultimate test of a successful new home choice is whether someone is happy.
A luxury environment could be a great choice, but at other times a community where friends have moved, or where the atmosphere is cozy and simple, would be a better choice.
COMFORTS OF HOME
Experts agree that making a new home means bringing the seniors' favorite pieces, including furniture, to the retirement community.
Mementos that recall special family events such as anniversaries, birthdays and graduations, and that provide a sense of continuity, are particularly important. Include favorite art, books, CDs and photographs for the new home.
Seniors whose visiting children and grandchildren will spend the night might want to include items that will make those family members more comfortable, including toys. The space should be set up and welcoming before the new resident moves into it.
While costs can be a determining factor, you still can look for those important qualities that make a new place one to call home.
