Senior living myths debunked: Loss of independence
Making the move to a retirement living community can be a big decision. It’s important to research your options and ask questions that will help you understand which community is right for you or a loved one.
Over the coming months, we will be discussing a number of longstanding myths that exist around senior living options. These myths continue to influence our most common concerns and objections, yet they simply aren’t accurate. As a whole, the senior living sector has evolved. At Seasons, we understand that while our residents want professionally trained staff to be available if needed, this isn’t their only priority when looking for a retirement community. They also demand a comfortable lifestyle, great food, engaging and meaningful things to do, all in a setting that they feel proud to call home.
The first myth we are going to look at is the idea that once in a retirement home, residents lose all of their independence.
The truth is, many people make the move to a retirement community without needing the full complement of supportive services that are offered. Highly independent people make the decision to move for a variety of reasons; it could be they are tired of keeping up with household chores like cooking and property maintenance, or maybe they want to be connected to a community of like-minded people and have access to a social calendar, or they want to feel safer and more secure in their home. Seasons offers a number of independent living options for active seniors who simply desire the peace of mind that comes from knowing someone is always there if and when you need them.
Furthermore, there are no visiting hours at Seasons so residents and their guests can come and go as they please. For safety reasons, the doors lock after a certain hour but guests may gain access by ringing the doorbell and speaking to one of our service team members who are available 24-7. We offer a full calendar of events but very often residents create their own, impromptu gatherings with neighbours. Many times residents remain committed to the clubs, volunteerism and friendships they’ve always found meaning in, and continue to leave the residence and head out into the greater community. There is a freedom that comes from the worry-free nature of congregate living.
Seasons Royal Oak Village resident Bonnie says, “Seasons allows me to make choices: Choices at mealtimes, choices of activities, choices in what I want to do. I’m able to live my own life and be my own person, without the stress of household chores, grocery shopping or cooking. I can focus on having fun! The staff at Seasons are excellent, they bring out the best in me.”
In other instances, people move to a retirement setting because they desire the care and support we can provide. Oftentimes, independence can actually increase after a move. When someone has support with nutritious meals, access to social programs, regular fitness classes, and a health and wellness team to oversee their wellbeing, they can lead happier and healthier lives. As needs change, people are comfortable knowing that additional care options can be accessed through staff who already know and care about you.
Whatever your reasons are for considering retirement community living, Seasons Retirement Communities is committed to providing excellent customer service and we will do everything we can to make this process as worry-free as possible for you. We will discuss your goals and intentions and make a recommendation on the best lifestyle and service package for your needs.
Book a personal tour today and decide if Seasons is the right fit for you or a loved one.