This series of articles is intended to spark consideration rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution. Let’s dive into the first topic: dispelling common misconceptions about senior housing.
1. It's Full of Old People
While most senior housing residents are over 62 to adhere to housing laws, exceptions exist, allowing for diversity in age, including couples with age differences or parents and children moving in together.
- The typical age range is 75-85, with a mix of active and less active residents, challenging the notion that everyone is older and less vibrant. The average age typically ranges from 82-84 for independent living and assisted living communities. People are a little older in memory care communities.
- You can (and should) uncover the reality by visiting senior communities—chances are, you’ll find like-minded individuals with shared experiences, making for potential great neighbors.
2. It Will Be Boring
One of the biggest misconceptions is that senior housing is dull; but any well-run community should have a dedicated Life Enrichment or Wellness department, with a Director responsible for creating dynamic monthly activity calendars.
- Activities cater to diverse interests, providing residents with a multitude of options—far exceeding what’s available to those living independently.
- Excellent life enrichment calendars have 10-12 activities per day. Good life enrichment calendars have six to ten activities per day. Few, if any, people who live independently can duplicate the number of choices residents who live in a senior housing community have.
- Studies consistently show that those in senior housing communities report higher life satisfaction compared to those who don’t make the move.
3. I Will Lose My Independence
The fear of losing independence often stems from a reluctance to adhere to someone else’s schedule.
- While schedules exist for organized activities, residents have the freedom to choose their level of participation, frequency, and timing.
- Using the example of scheduled bridge games, residents have various options, ensuring that organized events add choices rather than restricting independence.
In reality, senior housing communities defy stereotypes, offering vibrant and diverse lifestyles for people of all interests and abilities.
When the attitudes of those who move are compared to those who don’t, the former consistently express higher life satisfaction. Challenge these myths firsthand by participating in community events—it’s the best way to see the reality beyond misconceptions.
