The best age to move into senior living varies from person to person. But there are many reasons why moving sooner rather than later is often the best decision. A recent study reported that senior living allowed seniors to be more active, feel more socially connected and secure, and enjoy a better quality of life.
- 85% of residents were “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with their move to a retirement community.
- Almost all — 90% — believed they had moved at just the right time in their lives.
- 55% agreed or strongly agreed that their quality of life was higher than a year ago.
- 61% said their health was about the same since they moved into a community, and 10% reported their health had even improved.
- Overall, residents were five times as likely to engage in activities, social events and exercise.
- 93% felt they were safe in case of an emergency compared to only 40% of nonresidents
These positive impacts are confirmed by a five-year study conducted by Northwestern University and the not-for-profit Mather Institute in the U.S. Results from this still ongoing research reveal that residents in senior living communities have greater social, emotional, physical, vocational and intellectual wellness. They also reported feeling more happiness and greater satisfaction with life.
What does this mean for someone wondering about the best age to move into senior living? It shows there’s more to it than a decision about choosing care. It’s a way to maximize the perks of retirement, and the earlier the move, the more you get out of it.
Enjoy More Freedom
Downsizing into a maintenance-free senior apartment home enables a more carefree retirement. You’ll no longer have to worry about maintaining the house and yard or finding someone to help with or do repairs. Housekeeping and laundry are taken care of by community staff, and on-site services and amenities include restaurant-style dining, fitness programs, scheduled transportation, etc. The best age to move into senior living is when you’re ready for the additional freedom and time for travel, favorite hobbies, visiting family and more.
Feel More Energized
Staying fit and healthy adds years to your life and life to your years. It’s not just about exercise and eating well, although that’s where it starts. There are opportunities to pay attention to every dimension of wellness; physical, mental, emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual and more. And at Wyndemere, it’s fun. We offer a fitness center and indoor pool, and three dining venues to choose from, including a rooftop bar and lounge. And there are lots of things to do: tai chi and yoga, biking and walking trails, shopping and cocktails, college classes, clubs and committees. It’s a lifestyle designed to keep you socially connected and living life to the fullest.
Secure Future Care
Why would an active, healthy older adult need to think about their future healthcare needs? The reality is that nearly 70% of people turning 65 today will need some type of long-term care in the future. This is one of the reasons why the best age to move into senior living is well before you need care. At Wyndemere, you’ll enjoy a great independent lifestyle, knowing you have access to highly rated on-site health services in an emergency or whenever you need them.
Keep Finances Predictable
The best age to move into senior living is when you want to manage your retirement income with more predictability. For example, at Wyndemere, you’ll pay an upfront entrance fee and a single monthly fee that simplifies living expenses. You’re protected from the rising cost of healthcare with our LifeCare® Choice program, offering exceptional services for essentially the same monthly fee. It’s a significant savings compared to the high cost of market-rate healthcare. And no matter how long you call Wyndemere home, refundability options ensure a percentage of your entrance fee will go back to you or your estate.
Get a Head Start
Most independent living communities require potential residents to pass a medical exam, and they won’t accept applicants who don’t meet their health standards. This is done for practical reasons, to keep the community viable and ensure they can meet the capacity for healthcare. The best time to move into senior living is when you’re less likely to have health conditions that preclude admission.
Learn More
Deciding when to move to senior living is a very personal choice. At Wyndemere, our luxurious lifestyle, amenity-rich community, and continuum of high-quality future care are some of the great ways you can maximize your retirement today. Why not schedule a visit to see our floor plans and tour our neighborhoods? Contact us for your personal appointment.
