In Part 1, we debunked common myths about senior housing to empower you with accurate information for a thoughtful evaluation. In Part 2, we’ll focus on steps to creating a practical roadmap to save you time and mitigate conflicts, especially when decision-making involves multiple stakeholders. We want you to feel confident in whatever decision you make.
It may be helpful to start by acknowledging that your current home may not be the optimal place for you or your spouse in the later stages of life. Whether prompted by a home-related accident, the challenges of a chronic illness, or witnessing a family member’s prolonged struggle at home, you’re faced with a pivotal question: What choices can I make to ensure a fulfilling life through my later years?
While staying in your familiar home seems convenient, it’s essential to ponder whether it aligns with the quality of life to which you aspire.
Step 1: Embrace the Adventure—Open Your Mind & Dive into Research
Let’s kick off this journey by inviting you to approach the question with an open mind. As we debunked in the first article, there are many misconceptions about senior housing. To understand whether it aligns with your lifestyle, immerse yourself in the experience. Firsthand encounters offer the most accurate insights and help you develop a well-informed opinion.
Step 2: Uncover Your Desires Before Beginning the Hunt
Take a moment to unearth what you truly want and need in your next home and community. Ask yourself questions such as these:
- What do I love about my current home? These are the attributes you’ll seek in new places.
- What doesn’t quite work or may pose challenges with age? Identify attributes you want addressed in your new home.
- If you had a magic wand, what kind of home and community would you envision?
After pondering these questions, distill your desires into a simple statement. For example, “I’d love a home as cozy as mine but in a community where socializing is a breeze, with no yard maintenance hassles, easy year-round exercise options, and support for potential health concerns. If I can find this within budget, I’m ready for a change.” Make it specific, involving the preferences of your spouse or family members. The more clarity you have, the easier it will be to evaluate options.
Step 3: Navigate Trade-offs—Decisions, Decisions!
Prepare for some trade-off decisions unless you have unlimited financial resources. Understand that compromises may be necessary, such as a smaller home but access to essential health care services. Your goal is to get as close to your ideal within your budget constraints.
Step 4: Cultivate Generosity—It's Your Well-Deserved Life
Senior housing comes at a cost, and it may require dipping into your savings. While we don’t endorse reckless spending, remind yourself that you saved for a reason—to live safely and well. Be generous with yourself when the time comes.
Step 5: The Big Moment —Decide When to Make Your Move
At this point you will have collected information on your options, gotten clarity on what you are looking for, found the option that is closest to your ideal, and had experiences to validate you like it. It’s time to ponder the timing of your move. Addressing this question prematurely is like choosing a car before test-driving it. Let the decision flow naturally as you progress through this journey. If you found that moving will add to the quality of your life now, then you could decide to move soon. If you like it but still enjoy your home, then you might decide to move in the next couple of years.
