Five Ways to Help Your Parents Find Retirement Housing
Finding retirement housing to make your parents feel comfortable is a top priority as they reach their golden years. Giving them a helping hand can help them make the right decision so these years are as healthy and fun as possible. Consider these five ways to help your mom and dad find the retirement situation they always dreamed of.
1. Location Matters
Find out what type of city your parents would prefer to live in. Do they want to be surrounded by warm weather and lots of outdoor activities? Do they prefer a cooler climate without persistent heat? Find out if they are looking for arts, culture, shows, boating, golfing, fine dining and other entertainment options. Take them on vacations to explore the areas they like most, especially if they have not visited them within the past five years. Places change and they should know what the area is like now.
2. Housing Preferences
Would your parents like to live in a free-standing house or cottage? Do they like to live in a townhouse or apartment setting? Find out what your parents' housing preferences are. There are all types of retirement communities with options that are sure to suit any retiree. Consider how many bathrooms and bedrooms they want to be comfortable and feel at home. See if they want a patio, deck or outdoor living space where they can sit and barbecue or read together.
3. Amenities
Many retirement communities have a variety of alluring amenities. Discuss them with your parents to find out the must-have features the community should have. For example, they might want a swimming pool or tennis courts. A community center is another great option, especially if it has a fitness center and Internet cafe. Some communities also have shopping and socialization on the premises as well as transportation to local hot spots.
4. Health Care
As your parents get older, they might develop health conditions that require ongoing care and treatment. It can give them and you peace of mind to know there is a medical professional available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to take care of them. If your parents have debilitating conditions, an assisted living community might be the wisest choice. This will ensure your parents are taking their medication, getting exams, and have access to all the medical care they need to be well.
5. Meals and Cleaning
Many retirement communities offer easy living by providing the must-have chores so retirees have less responsibilities and more time to enjoy themselves. This might include serving three well-balanced, gourmet meals each day with snacks. There are also communities that provide housekeeping and landscaping so seniors never have to worry about doing these tasks. They can simply kick back and enjoy the benefits of being retired.
Take time to tour these communities with your parents and take photos and notes along the way so you can all make an educated decision about choosing a viable retirement community.
807 SW Industrial Way
Bend, OR 97702