Making the step to pre-retirement or retirement living is exciting. Among other things, you can look forward to a full social calendar, amenities, cuisine, and healthcare, all while enjoying your independence in your own, manageable home. When you begin the search for your 55+ community, you will find you have a lot of options. Be sure to ask the following questions before you make your final decision on your senior living arrangements.
Top Questions to ask Before Moving to a Retirement Community
1. Do You Plan on Renting?
If you are unsure if senior living is right for you, renting a retirement home can be a great way to test the waters. It is also an option if you cannot afford a down payment but would still like to transition to a retirement community.
Keep in mind, however, that some senior living facilities are purchase-only. Make sure they have leasing options available before you commit.
2. How Much Are Your Association Dues?
In retirement communities, residents are expected to pay association dues to support amenities and services like landscaping, trash and snow removal, and routine maintenance. The amount of these dues can vary considerably depending on the location and size of the community, as well as what amenities are available.
If social events and amenities are a priority for you, expect to pay a little more in association dues. In most cases, these fees are well worth it for the resources they fund.
3. What Amenities/Activities are Available?
Once you establish how much you will be paying the association, it’s time to find out just what those dues pay for! What activities and amenities are offered? Many retirees enjoy a vibrant social life in their senior living communities, with daily events, holiday gatherings, games, and more.
Your community may also come equipped with a clubhouse where you can swim and have a workout. Ask for the comprehensive list of what your potential 55+ community will have available.
4. Are Children Allowed?
One of the things many seniors look forward to in retirement is getting to spend more time with family. However, certain communities have strict policies regarding visitors under the age of 55. You may need permission to host grandchildren or other younger family members, or they may not be permitted to visit at all. Make sure you verify any age restrictions in your community before you settle in.
5. Is Continuing Care Available?
Ideally, your retirement home should be your forever home. As we age, however, our needs for daily living necessarily change. You may be wondering what to expect in the future. What happens if you need more assistance? Or you have a medical event? The last thing you need to worry about is having to move to another facility while you are dealing with a health issue.
Certain communities, called Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC), allow you to transition from independent care to assisted care, usually without having to move. They will work with you to make sure you have access to everything you need, including healthcare, without you having to leave your home or friends.
Research your chosen community to see if they offer CCRC so you can settle into your new home without any worry for the future.
Senior Living in Colorado
Ready to start the journey to senior living in Colorado? Contact Brenda Kellogg Meyer. As a Senior Real Estate Specialist, Brenda is exceptionally skilled at finding the right home for her senior clients. Colorado is home to some truly wonderful senior communities, and Brenda is here to help you find the perfect fit. Call or go online today to get started.
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