Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
When is it time?
It is natural for most people to say they would like to stay in their own home for as long as they can. In fact, many times I hear, “Let’s put the move off until it’s absolutely necessary.” While you may have heard someone say, “Good things come to those who wait,” many times waiting for “good things” in life doesn’t align with your well-being. Through many years of working in the senior living community, I have observed the benefits this community can provide. When I hear one of my residents tell me, “I wish I would have moved sooner,” I think of misconceptions that can cause seniors and their families to turn away from the option of transitioning to a senior living community.
While many prospective residents say they are not ready, they need to ask themselves how the day should look when they decide they are now ready to move. The answer may be different for each person, but I challenge you to think about your reason for waiting. Are you overwhelmed with the task of downsizing? Perhaps you feel that a move shouldn’t be made unless you fall or have health issues. You may not realize the position you put yourself in by delaying a decision to begin looking at retirement communities. So, is there a “right age” to move? The reality is that you should move to a community when you’re active and ready for more independence. A maintenance-free lifestyle gives you the freedom to do more of what you love to do. Having an unobscured window of choice is always the best way to begin.
Many seniors delay moving to Assisted Living because they are concerned they will outlive their savings. Staying at home can cost much more in the long run. It is challenging to manage the upkeep of a home, including the exterior and landscaping. Even in the best market the value of the property may be declining. You must also consider your medical history and the potential for unforeseen care needs. Most seniors will eventually need some sort of daily assistance. When you factor in the services and amenities included in a community, Assisted Living is actually affordable for most seniors! One resident commented that seniors were reminded to ‘save, save, save’ throughout their lives, but once they reached age they needed to spend their hard-earned money on care, it was hard to reverse that thinking and let go.
Seniors have expressed concern they will lose their privacy and independence. This is far from the truth! Assisted Living is set up like a normal apartment complex. That means you’ll only have visitors when you want them — and no one will ever enter your apartment without your prior knowledge and consent. Assisted Living is designed to maximize your freedom and encourage you to keep being a part of your local community. You are not restricted from leaving. In fact, transportation is provided; however, if you’re a licensed driver, you’ll still be able to use your own personal vehicle. This is your home, and you can decorate your apartment with all your treasured belongings. Independence is gained by mentally staying healthy. In your home you may face loneliness, but consistent socialization in a community reduces the likelihood that seniors will experience the depression caused by isolation and loneliness.
Concordia’s Catered Assisted Living has much to offer families and residents of Northwest Arkansas! Our Assisted Living offers 24-hour services designed to cater to the needs of each individual resident. Barb, our Assisted Living Administrator, states that quality of care is the highest priority in our community. Residents live an active lifestyle through our activity program lead by our Life Enrichment Coordinator. Our compassionate staff can also provide assistance with medications, bathing, grooming, and dressing. We are the most affordable Assisted Living Community in Northwest Arkansas. Our monthly rent is all inclusive and does not have any hidden costs. It includes three daily meals prepared in our own kitchen, weekly housekeeping, laundry service, daily towel service, daily trash pickup, extended basic cable and utilities. Our dedicated staff and cozy, home like environment set us apart from other communities! With only 20 apartments at Catered, we often refer to ourselves as one big, happy family! The staff personally knows the resident’s family members and have developed a good rapport with them. All who enter as a guest leave as family.
Senior living options have progressed a long way from the time when seniors had one choice - that of moving from their home to an institutional-looking nursing home. Seniors now have additional options which provide a quality of life enjoyed by our residents at Concordia. If you are seeking options for yourself or a loved one, we encourage you to visit our community. If you are struggling with many fears or doubts and wonder if now is the time to move, we would love to help. Please reach out to us at 479-855-3714.