Maintaining a house is a lot of work at any stage in life. From routine maintenance tasks like painting and lawn care to on-demand chores like repairing appliances and changing light bulbs, it’s often time-consuming and expensive.

When the kids still live at home, you usually require more space. Life is less stressful when everyone in the family has a place to retreat to and there’s an extra bathroom or two. After you retire, however, that empty space may become more work than it’s worth.

An older house often has another disadvantage: it’s probably not designed with the needs of a senior in mind. That can create a safety risk.

If you are wondering if the time has come for you or an aging parent to downsize and transition to a senior living community, we have a few questions you can ask yourself to make the decision easier.

Is It Time to Downsize?

• Are you or the senior spending too much time alone?

If you or your parent isn’t as comfortable driving as in past years, finding transportation may be a struggle. It can lead an older adult to become lonely and isolated. Not only does that decrease quality of life, it can actually be bad for physical well-being too.

Isolation has been identified as a health risk for seniors. It contributes to medical conditions ranging from obesity and diabetes to heart disease and depression. By downsizing and moving to a senior living community, an older adult gains access to transportation and a host of daily activities and events.

• Is the family looking for a more worry-free lifestyle?

No parent wants to feel as if they are a burden to a busy adult child. When it is hard for a senior to maintain their home without assistance, locating and retaining someone to help around the house can be expensive and even difficult. Adult children may need to step in and assist.

An advantage of an independent living or assisted living community is all maintenance tasks and chores are included. No more worries about lawn care, snow removal, painting, or taking out the trash.

• Does the older adult need a little extra help with personal care?

Sometimes the best way to maintain independence longer is to accept a little assistance. Moving to an assisted living community, where staff are always nearby to help with a shower, laundry, and other tasks, can lower the risk for a fall or other injury. That allows an older adult to live in their own apartment or villa instead of a nursing home.

• Are home maintenance costs preventing retirement dreams from coming true?

Most people have dreams of what retirement will look like. Taking trips, pursuing new hobbies, and spoiling the grandchildren are a few common desires. If the expenses and burdens of maintaining a home are preventing you or your older loved one from living your best life during retirement, the benefits of a senior living community might be an ideal solution.

Speak with a Care Advisor at No Cost

Navigating the maze of senior care options can feel overwhelming. One step you can take to make an informed decision is to work with a senior care advisor. Our care advisors are experts at knowing what type of care an older adult needs, as well as what local options are available. Call 800-304-8061 to get started today!

 Photo by Scott Webb on Unsplash