There are many different reasons why someone might choose to live in a retirement community. Maybe they want more structure in their day or want to live with people who share similar interests. Whatever their reasons are for choosing to live in a retirement community, they all come down to one thing: An active social life and access to medical care. Retirement communities are designed to be social hubs where residents can make lifelong friendships, interact with people from different backgrounds and engage in activities they enjoy most. This also means residents have easy access to quality healthcare services on-site or nearby every day no matter what.
Who lives in retirement communities?
Retirement communities are home to people of all ages, genders, ethnicities and cultures. In fact, many communities have a variety of amenities to accommodate their residents’ varying needs. Some communities offer fitness facilities such as gyms, spas and wellness programs, while others provide social activities and events like potlucks, outings and games nights. Others have libraries, computer labs and reading rooms that residents can use free of charge.
Health issues and concerns
As people grow older, their health concerns change. Some common health issues faced by older adults include falls, incontinence, vision and hearing loss, mental health issues like depression, and chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. Some retirement communities have specific programs designed to help their residents manage these issues, or they may contract with nearby healthcare providers to provide services on-site. Other communities create programs to address general health issues like nutrition, exercise and prevention education.
Dementia and cognitive impairment
Dementia is a progressive disease that causes a decline in mental abilities like memory. It is often stigmatized, and many people fear that living with a resident who has dementia will be stressful and disruptive. However, those who have lived with people with dementia report that it has been surprisingly positive and rewarding, even though it has required patience and understanding on their part. Retirement communities may have programs designed to address the needs of residents with dementia, including activities that help them keep their minds sharp, or they may contract with nearby healthcare providers to provide services on-site.
Cardiovascular disease and hypertension
Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of death among older adults. It can be prevented, however, with a healthy diet, regular exercise and stress management. It’s important to know your risk factors for heart disease, and discuss them with your doctor. Many retirement communities have programs designed to help residents manage their cardiovascular health. Other communities may have partnerships with nearby healthcare providers to provide services on-site, like cardiac rehabilitation programs, or they may offer special menus to encourage healthy eating and reduce sodium intake.
Pain management and other chronic conditions
Some older adults suffer from chronic pain, perhaps as a result of an injury or surgery. Others suffer from a variety of pain disorders, such as migraine or fibromyalgia. Some communities may have programs to address pain management, while others may have partnerships with nearby healthcare providers to provide services on-site, like physical therapy for those who have had surgery or have experienced an injury.
What is provided at retirement communities?
Retirement communities provide a variety of services to their residents. Some communities have fitness centers, libraries, computer labs and reading rooms. Others have spas, fitness programs, social activities and programs to address general health issues like nutrition, exercise and prevention education.
Bottom line
Retirement communities offer many benefits to their residents, including a safe, supportive environment and access to health care. These communities also provide many opportunities for social interaction, which is a key component to healthy living for any age group.