Many people, as they get older, begin to yearn for more carefree, less stressful living. Consequently, they’re increasingly drawn to the idea of residing in a senior independent living community. For some, the attraction is leaving behind the hassles of home ownership and maintenance; for others, it’s the friendly camaraderie with peers to share similar hobbies and interests.
Independent living communities are ideal for retirees who are able to live on their own and, according to HelpGuide.org, are designed exclusively for seniors, offering ease of movement and eliminating the need for home maintenance and yard work.
Senior independent living communities typically provide a range of services for their residents. However, they’re all different, so take your time and do your homework to find the Pennsylvania retirement community or Maryland retirement home that best meets your needs.
When choosing a retirement community, certainly you will want to get cost information for each of the senior communities you are considering. First, though, you might want to compare costs of an independent living community vs. remaining in your present home. You will also want to walk around the senior living communities that you have in mind to compare their appearances and services, such as dining, laundry, transportation and volunteer opportunities.
When you talk with a retirement home community’s admissions director or visit a retirement home, be prepared by having a list of items or questions that are most important to you. For example: What retirement community activities are available? When and where are meals served? May I see a menu? How would you respond to a medical or other emergency? What will I do if I need care beyond independent living?
SeniorLiving.org offers a list of questions in various categories that you might want to ask to find the senior community that’s the right fit for you. Country Meadows also has a summary of what to look for when considering a retirement community.
On your visit—knowing that you might one day require skilled care or assisted living services—try to observe the interaction of residents with staff. Do the residents appear comfortable and satisfied? Does the staff look like they enjoy their duties? Does the environment appear home-like and friendly?
At Country Meadows, independent living includes comfortable, private apartments; meals; programs to enrich body, mind and soul; maintenance-free living; housekeeping and laundry services; emergency medical assistance; retirement community activities and a pet-friendly atmosphere. Country Meadows is an all-rental community, with utilities included, and doesn’t require a large entrance fee.
We hope you now know a bit more about independent living and the retirement home community at Country Meadows. Feel free to visit us at any of our Pennsylvania sites in Allentown, Bethlehem, Hershey, Lancaster, Mechanicsburg, Pittsburgh-South Hills, Wyomissing, York-South (Leader Heights) and York-West, as well as in Frederick, MD. Early in 2016, we’ll open our 11th retirement community in Easton-Forks Township. Please contact us to request information or schedule a visit at any of our locations.
Country Meadows
