Is The Cost Of Senior Living Worth It?
It does not matter who you are, cost plays an important role in just about every area of your life. For this reason, if you have an aging parent or other loved one, you may be wondering whether the cost of staying in a senior living community is worth it. To help address your concerns, learn about some of the ways the value of living in a retirement community far outweighs the investment.
Beyond Mortgage
When people assess the cost of senior living there is a tendency to perform a direct comparison between the cost of mortgage payments and the monthly community fee. Do not do this; there is more to factor in. Senior living community fees are all-inclusive, with some even including meal plans. So, from an electric bill to a gym membership to landscaping and maintenance costs, living in these communities can eliminate all these additional costs.
Sense of Community
As a person ages, social interaction and a sense of community are critical. While it is often overlooked, depression and anxiety are just some of the mental health conditions that can impact the elderly when they feel alone or are isolated. In retirement communities, your loved one will be surrounded by like-minded individuals who can provide a sense of companionship. When professional and personal obligations have you bogged down, you can rest assured that your loved one is not alone.
Active Lifestyle
In addition to mental health, staying active is also important as it can deter a number of diseases and medical conditions. An excellent thing about many senior living communities is the fact that they typically have gym facilities within the communities, walking trails, and pools. Some communities also have activity calendars that include everything from aerobics classes to yoga. Your loved one will be able to remain active in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Peace of Mind
The value of knowing that your loved one is safe is immeasurable, and if your loved one currently lives alone, you may have concerns in this area. In addition to community and activities, these communities also include security services within the cost. Whether the community provides an access gate system or on-site security services, you can have peace of mind that your loved one is safe and being looked after.
Ultimately, you will need to do what is best for your family and your needs. Consider this information as you make your decision on senior living.