During the last decade, retirement communities have gained huge popularity. Sometimes also referred to as independent living communities, retirement communities are housing developments made in strict accordance with the needs of senior citizens.
Retirement communities are more or less similar to residential developments. You can even think of them being similar to apartments or condos. The main difference between a retirement community and a housing development is the type of services offered.
A retirement community offers all the services of a residential housing complex and also offers all the necessary resources a senior citizen might need.
It is common for retirement communities to offer 24-hour support staff for housekeeping and medical emergencies.
Who Lives In Retirement Communities?
Most retirement communities are strictly age-restricted. They usually allow senior citizens who are not critically ill or have any serious health condition.
Any senior citizen over the age of 55 who is physically and mentally fit, and who wants to lead an independent life amongst other people of his/her age is welcome spend their golden years at a retirement community.
Residents of a retirement community are not bound by any restrictions whatsoever. They are allowed to come and go as they please. They also have the freedom to join any particular activity they like. In fact, the support staff at retirement communities urge the residents to join multiple activities to keep their mind fresh and relaxed.
Can I Expect Company?
Of course, as a resident of a retirement community you will have plenty of opportunities to socialize with people of your own age. It’s common for the support staff to organize group activities so residents can get to know each other.
In addition to the various group activities you can indulge in, you can also expect library services, restaurants, salons and chapels.
Where Are Retirement Communities Located?
Since retirement communities have gained huge popularity, you can find one almost anywhere. However, I would suggest you choose a retirement community located outside of town.
You can even find a retirement community at holiday spots. However, you might have to shell out some more money for this as compared to a retirement community in or near a metropolitan city.
Do Retirement Communities Offer Medical Care And Services?
Yes, retirement communities offer excellent on-site medical care. Most of the reputed retirement communities keep a team of doctors on standby to tackle any emergencies. Depending on your loved one’s health problem, you can expect simple outpatient department services to full nursing and home care services.
In fact, one of the reasons why senior citizens move to retirement homes is to have round the clock health care facilities. After decades of living in a town, many senior citizens prefer quiet surroundings rather than noisy streets. Another advantage of living at a retirement home away from the town is you will be miles away from polluted air.
This article is written by Samantha Andrews. Today her parents are living happily in Franciscan Communities. Watching her parents enjoy their time at a retirement community puts a smile on her face.
