As you age, your home’s daily upkeep and maintenance can become increasingly burdensome. One solution is to move into an independent living community where you can maintain independence while enjoying a more carefree lifestyle.
However, retirement communities vary drastically in terms of amenities and specialties, making it essential to find the right one for you. In this guide, we’ll debunk common misconceptions about retirement communities and provide tips on finding the perfect community in St. Louis.
Common Misconceptions About Retirement Communities
Many people have misconceptions about retirement communities.
Let’s debunk a few of them:
- Quality of life: Retirement communities give residents the freedom to live life on their own terms with less responsibilities to worry about.
- Making connections: Most retirement communities have generous visiting hours, so friends and family can visit as much as they want. Moreover, these communities offer opportunities to build new relationships with like-minded individuals in similar stages of life.
- Hobbies: Most retirement communities offer various programs and activities, such as book clubs, crafts, gardening, fitness classes, and more, allowing seniors to continue pursuing their interests or discover new hobbies.
Tips for Finding the Right Retirement Communities in St. Louis
When it comes to retirement communities in St. Louis, you have a wealth of options! Which one is the right fit for you? Here’s how to choose:
Determine your ideal retirement style.
Living a worry-free lifestyle is another benefit of senior independent living. Seniors who live in independent living communities no longer have to worry about maintaining a home or yard, cooking, cleaning, or other daily chores that can become more difficult with age. This allows seniors to focus on enjoying their retirement and participating in activities that they love.
Food is an essential part of maintaining good health and well-being. Many independent living communities offer meals that are nutritious, well-balanced, and cater to the dietary needs of seniors. Many communities also have dining options that are social, such as communal dining rooms or outdoor dining areas, which allows seniors to enjoy meals with their friends and neighbors.
Participating in activities that seniors enjoy is crucial for maintaining their physical and mental health. Our independent living communities offer a range of activities that are specifically designed for seniors, such as exercise classes, art classes, and cultural events. These activities help seniors stay active, engaged, and connected to their community.
Browse healthcare options and offerings.
When searching for a retirement community, consider your medical conditions, mental health concerns, special needs, or necessary accommodations. Identify your desired amenities and compare them with what each community offers. If proximity to healthcare providers is essential, look for communities near your preferred hospitals or clinics. Consider genetics, recent diagnoses, or worsening chronic ailments to prepare for possible future needs.
Assess the location and surroundings.
Ask yourself important questions about the community’s location, such as distance to common destinations, transportation options, and neighborhood safety.
Consider and calculate the costs of moving.
At Bethesda, we understand that moving can be overwhelming, especially for seniors. That’s why we have developed our Moving with Ease program, designed to make your transition to our community as smooth and stress-free as possible. When you reserve your new home at Bethesda, you’ll receive a moving allowance to help with your expenses including a range of services tailored to your unique needs. These may include full-service movers, professional organizers and space planners, estate sale referrals, handyman services, and more.
Ask questions!
Engage with the staff at each community and speak with current residents to gather their opinions. During your tour, ask questions about what you see. Make note of how residents engage in activities and how staff members interact with residents. Get a feel for whether this is an environment in which you would want to live.
Prioritize Senior Living Communities with Compassion and Personality
When choosing a retirement community, look for one that prioritizes compassion and provides support throughout the process. Bethesda’s independent senior living communities focus on helping seniors find the right home. And, as a non-profit organization, the money we make goes directly back into our communities for renovations and enhancements as opposed to for-profit companies where money goes to private investors.
Remember, finding the ideal retirement community in St. Louis requires researching, interacting with residents and staff, and prioritizing what’s important to you. Don’t settle for less than the ideal community that meets your needs and provides a comfortable, fulfilling lifestyle.
Discover Your Ideal Independent Living Community with Bethesda
Are you ready to embrace a new chapter in your life, surrounded by like-minded individuals and a warm, supportive community? One of Bethesda’s independent senior living communities might be the ideal choice for you.
At Bethesda, we understand that each individual is unique, so we take a compassionate and personalized approach to senior living in St. Louis. We are committed to creating a welcoming environment in which you can thrive, build meaningful connections, and enjoy various amenities and activities designed with your needs and interests in mind.
We invite you to visit our website or contact us today to learn more about the Bethesda difference. Our dedicated team is here to answer any questions and help you navigate the process of finding a retirement community that truly feels like home. With Bethesda, you can look forward to a vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle that empowers you to live your best life. Contact us today to schedule your tour!
