As we age, our lifestyles change. For example, we may no longer need or want a large house. We may prefer something of a more manageable size because the demands for maintenance increase or because of difficulties in managing stairs, the house may be unsuitable.

For some of us, the demands of daily living may make it difficult to achieve the lifestyle we desire. It may be difficult or tedious to shop for groceries and prepare nutritious meals. Some of us might be living alone and feeling a little isolated. And, if we have health concerns or our kids are worried about our well-being, we may seek a more supportive environment.

If this describes you or your loved one, a retirement residence may provide the level of support you need and, at the same time, enable you to maintain your independence and privacy.

What is a Retirement Residence?

Retirement residences meet the needs of those who need greater security or who are no longer able to manage all the activities of daily living by themselves. These facilities aim to allow residents to continue to live with dignity and as independently as possible, enjoying life to the fullest, while providing the security, care and supportive services necessary.

Retirement residences vary widely in terms of care and supportive services provided, amenities offered, types of accommodation and physical structure. Accordingly, prices also vary widely. Since most retirement residences are privately owned and operated and do not receive any government funding, the resident has to pay the full cost. Tenure is typically rental and accommodation rates are subject to rent control.

Most retirement residences provide accommodation, meals, social/recreational programs, 24-hour supervision, laundry and housekeeping services. Other care and supportive services such as assistance with the activities of daily living (ADLs), assistance with medications and personal nursing care may also be included in the posted rates or available at an additional cost.

Initial Considerations

When making your decision to choose a retirement residence, you should keep the following in mind:

• You, the person affected by the decision and key family members should be involved in the process.
• Making life choices can be emotionally stressful and may strain relationships. Assign one family member to assist with all the necessary decisions and arrangements.
• Consider also the needs and health of your caregiver.

Getting Started

Finding an appropriate retirement residence takes time and research but you’re already off to a great start.

Once you have become familiar with the types of services and amenities that may be offered at retirement residences, it’s a good idea to make a list, actually two lists. The first is a list of the things you must have in order to live comfortably and the second, a list of what you would like to have, since what we need is often quite different from what we want. This checklist will be useful in helping you narrow your choices.

To find out if a residence suits your needs and preferences you need to personally visit it, if possible, more than once. Call ahead to the retirement residences that interest you to schedule a tour. If you visited during the day, visit a second time in the evening.

Try to observe “a day in the life” at the home, talk to residents and ask plenty of questions. Ask if you can wander around on your own to get a better feel for the place, after all, it could be your new home. Attend some of the activities or stay for meal. Like neighborhoods, each retirement residence has a unique atmosphere. It’s important to consider if the “feel” of the retirement residence is right for you or your family member. Many retirement residence offer short-term trial stays, which is the best way to truly know if a home is right one. Remember to ask the administrator or manager of the home as many questions as you can, and talk to residents when possible.

Contact Us Today to Book Your Tour of a Retirement Residence

The staff in our retirement residences will be more than pleased to show you around, answer your questions and make you feel comfortable.

Contact Revera Assisted Living - Click Here.