Independent Living Communities
Is It Time to Consider a Move?
By Shirley Long, Parkview in Frisco, Collin County LIVING WELL Magazine
“Should I stay in my home or should I consider moving to a senior community?” This is a tough decision and there are many reasons why one starts to consider the options. Many times, it is not the senior, but rather family members who start the process when they begin to worry about their loved ones maintaining their home. Sometimes the search begins when a health scare happens, or maybe they just want their parents closer so they can enjoy valuable time with them. The best situation is when seniors decide it is time to enjoy a new stress-free lifestyle. Whatever the reason, there are many things to consider when deciding the right time to make this change.
Moving is difficult no matter what the reason. But moving sooner rather than later is most often the better choice. Before choosing a senior community, you need to decide what are the most important amenities and choices for you:
- Do they allow pets?
- How close is the location to my family?
- Are dining services offered? Are meals catered or prepared onsite? Do they have a chef? Are meals served cafeteria-style or is there a wait staff?
- Are housekeeping services available?
- What type of social activities are offered? Do they have a full time activity or social director?
- What type of fitness and wellness programs are offered?
- Is transportation available?
- And one of the most important to consider: does it feel like home? Is the atmosphere warm and inviting when you enter the community? Are the staff and residents welcoming?
Many seniors make the decision to move with gusto and enthusiasm for this new chapter in their lives when they don’t have to be burdened with maintaining a home anymore. This new stress-free living is something they have earned. However, some people may feel a little uncertain and worry over what the transition will entail, such as:
It is too hard to downsize.
It seems almost unnatural to spend a lifetime accumulating things that have sentimental value and then have to give most of it away. This is one of the most difficult parts of downsizing. However, you have to look at it as the ideal time to give these precious mementos to family members. Many other items can be donated to nonprofit organizations (and you get a tax deduction). After you get this part of the move out of the way, you can turn you attention on the excitement of living your life to the fullest!
I want to remain independent.
Are you really independent when you are tied to your property and have to deal with the constant upkeep? You have to clean your home regularly or hire a housekeeper. Cooking meals, especially for just one person, does not become a priority; therefore, you might not get a balanced meal…and who wants to dine alone. Moving to a senior community solves all of these problems and provides a more independent lifestyle than you ever dreamed!
I might not fit in with the other residents.
Most senior communities have a nice variety of social activities planned to meet the interests of their residents. The scheduled activities may include exercise classes, arts and crafts, social events, entertainment, educational seminars, shopping trips to the mall, parties, dances, and the list goes on. The social calendar makes it easy to meet new friends. The transition from a home of many years to a senior apartment community can be very emotional. Having to meet all new friends can be daunting; however, socializing with people in similar age and life experiences brings new enjoyment to the daily routine.
I don’t want to be a burden on my family.
Most seniors do not want to bother their children by asking for help. What most children will say is that it is a bigger problem and they worry more when parents stay in their home. Moving to a senior community would allow the children to rest well knowing their loved ones are in a safe environment, participating in social opportunities, enjoying healthy meals daily, and taking pleasure in their new lifestyle. Time spent with loved ones now becomes a quality, enjoyable occasion.
Shirley Long is marketing manager at Parkview in Frisco, an all-inclusive lifestyle community for seniors located at 7450 Stonebrook Parkway, Frisco, Texas 75034. For more information, call 972-377-6744 or visit parkviewinfrisco.com.
