What Do You Lose By Not Moving To An Independent Living Community?
More Than You Think!
Anthony J. Mullen, Certified Public Accountant (CPA), The Conservatory at Plano, Collin LIVING WELL Magazine (formerly SENIOR Magazine)
Yes, the American dream is to own your own home, but when we get to be around 70 years old, the American dream starts to fail us. It simply starts to take too much time, energy and worry to maintain the house, driveway, sidewalk and the grounds. We can begin to become isolated in the house, and this isolation is actually detrimental to our health. No one wants to be a burden on their children, relatives, or friends but that is exactly what happens to at least 50% of us or more who stay stuck in the past fighting against what is now our best interest. People who stay too long in the house become dependent. The people who say, “I’m not ready yet,” are almost always fooling themselves, as they grow more dependent and less healthy each day.
The scientific evidence is now overwhelming. The number and quality of the social connections you have are the best determinant of how long you will live and how healthy you will stay during those years. Science has been able to prove that your bodily systems and health will actually improve by having more social interaction. The more involved we are, the longer we will live, and the healthier we will stay. There is no better place to make these new social connections and to stay involved in life, than by moving to an independent living community.
Next to the critically important social connections, the second most important thing we can do to prevent frailty and improve our health is called strength training. Consistent walking or aerobic exercise is very important, but strength training is the secret. Learn how to do it safely and easily with a personal trainer in a fitness center offered at some independent living communities.
Finally, it’s time to become mentally engaged. Applying your mind to new endeavors has been proven to help prevent dementia. What is it that you’ve always wanted to learn or to do? What is it that you’ve promised yourself that someday you would do? Now is the time! Today is the day to no longer think about it! Agree to finally do it! Even if you don’t move to an independent living retirement community, they will do everything possible to encourage you to act; to change you to reach, and you’ll become healthier for doing so.
Hesitant about moving because you feel you can’t afford it? Consider the following: Most of you who own a house have $500 – $1,000 or more per month in extra income you could generate by selling/renting your home and investing it wisely. Most of you are paying real estate taxes, property insurance, heat, light, water and property up keep expenses. These expenses are covered by the inclusive monthly fee at an independent living community. As a CPA, I can vouch that it is surprisingly affordable to live in an independent living community when you do the true analysis.
Anthony J. Mullen, CPA, is the director of research for the National Investment Center for the Senior Housing & Care Industry. The Conservatory at Plano is an independent living community that invites you to call them at 972-491-3100 and schedule a complimentary lunch and tour.
