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We reach a certain age when the responsibilities of life are over, our work is done and we need to get on with the job of living, living gracefully and with dignity.
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Factors to consider before moving into a senior living community
Old age comes to all of us. We reach a certain age when the responsibilities of life are over, our work is done and we need to get on with the job of living, living gracefully and with dignity. This is something we have all learnt from the elders of our families. Many of today’s urban elderly are highly educated, have had high-powered careers and been world travelers. But when they retire, they prefer to come back home to Bangalore. Senior living communities are a great living option with all possible facilities. But before you make a decision to move into such a community, take a few factors into consideration. Medical facilities - You must ask this question right up front. Are there medical facilities right inside the community? And if so, to what degree? Is there a doctor available 24/7? Are there nurses on duty to take care when you fall ill? Is there an ambulance service for emergency transport to the hospital?
Buy or rent - This is another issue that you (and your spouse) need to settle. Would you invest a large chunk of your savings in buying a home in a senior living facility (going in for a loan at this point may not be advisable) or is it better to rent. Then if you are not happy with the place, you may at any time choose to leave and look for some place better. Compare costs - Leading from the previous point, compare how much 2 or more (your shortlisted facilities) cost vis-a-vis the living space and facilities provided. You can also find out the costs of nursing, physiotherapy, other hobby classes etc. Location - This is a very important factor. How would you grade the location. Being close to the city center and to good hospitals/your doctor. Being close to family. Being away from the hustle and bustle and amidst nature. Look at areas that suit you best. There are plenty of affordable apartments in Bangalore located in senior living communities.
The living space - What kind of home are you looking for? There are plenty of options available. From duplex apartments in Bangalore to villas in Mysore. Think about this. Are your children, grandchildren likely to visit often? Do other relatives come to stay? Will climbing the stairs often be a problem for you or your spouse? Food - Will you be cooking or employing a personal cook? Many senior living facilities have their own kitchens that serve meals to all the homes. Which would you prefer? If so, what style of food is to your taste? How healthy are the meals? Is there a dietitian supervising? Your future neighbors - it is always a good idea to visit the facility before you decide to move in. you can get to know some of the people living there and ask them how they like it. Who knows? You might discover a distant relative or a long lost friend already living there. Even if you don’t in any case, you will make friends and socialize with the other people living there. This would be easiest if they were like-minded individuals. Or perhaps it would be fun if they were completely diverse, if they came from many different cultures, spoke different languages etc.
What activities are offered? - You are probably still an active, busy and determined person. This must not change if you move into a senior living community. In fact, in this kind of community you will have more things to do and more opportunities to socialize. See if it is possible to find out what kind of classes and services they offer. Is there a masseur/masses use who visits the community? Is there a swimming pool with lifeguards? Are there bhajan/light music classes? Is there a yoga class? A laughter club? Maybe a weekly movie show. If you are interested in pottery or drawing, can you start a class if enough people sign up? It is important to assure yourself of the quality of life you will be able to enjoy once you move in. What is the reputation of the community like? - Finally, always check on feedback before you buy/rent. Do you know relatives or friends or parents of friends who have stayed there at some point? Talk to them. Also check online. Not just the community’s website, but look at neutral sites that publish reviews. Read at least 8-10 reviews on at least 3 different websites.
It is certainly imperative to be rigorous in doing a thorough background check and information search before you move into a senior living community. As you are about to change your life in a big way, you have to be sure it is the right decision for you. Do not be forced, coaxed or influenced into making this decision by anyone else. You must always assure yourself a certain quality of life before you move in. so do your homework. This list of questions can get you started but also jot down a list of some more questions that are specific to you and your situation. Only then decide.
