Senior Living Communities were once thought of as an institutionalized, sterile environment for the old and the ill.  If you haven’t stepped foot in an assisted living facility or similar type of community in the last decade or two, then you may still have the same opinion.  However, these communities have transformed into something much more desirable and accommodating than they once were.  Some of the greatest myths associated with senior living have been debunked once and for all!

I Have To Be Old And In Need Of Assistance To Move Into A Senior Community

False. Age and ability do not determine whether or not you are ready to move into an assisted living facility or a community of sorts.  Many perks such as maintenance-free living, home-cooked meals, housekeeping, lawn care, and other household chores are enticing reasons for any retiree to make a move. As a matter of fact, moving in while you’re still healthy and young allows you to choose a residence based on desirability and not need. This gives you the flexibility to make your own choices and not rely on a family member to choose for you.  Should the need for more significant assistance arise at a later time, these communities are well-staffed to meet your needs and cater to your abilities. 

Senior Living Is Expensive

False. Looking at the monthly cost of living in a senior community may cause a few jaws to drop and can give you a case of sticker shock. However, when you sit and break down the actual costs, you may find that it’s comparable to what you’re already paying, collectively, for bundled services, home care, bills, and support in your own home. A flat monthly rate encompasses such expenses as your mortgage, insurance, utilities, housekeeping, lawn care, groceries and dining, gym memberships, entertainment, and more. Everything you need is all essentially under one roof, should you choose!

I’ll Lose My Independence And Have To Give Up My Extracurricular Activities

On the contrary, senior living often offers you more independence and time to engage in your favorite hobbies and pastimes. Without all of the worry over chores and household upkeep, you’ll find you have more free time to enjoy the things you love. There are usually a wide variety of activities and social gatherings in which to partake within the community. There are many opportunities to meet new people and try new things you may not have been exposed to before; it’s a wonderful time to explore new hobbies and interests. Should you choose to continue your off-site activities, you’re free to do so, as long as you’re able. You can meet up with buddies for a round of golf or a bridge game and then return home to a home-cooked meal and a clean residence. Your time is not spent at the grocery store gathering items to cook a meal or around the house, maintaining the yard, or any other obligatory home maintenance task.  

I Won’t Have Any Privacy Or Time To Myself

With your own apartment or living quarters, you can have as much or as little alone time as you desire. If you’d like to spend the day cuddled up on the couch with a book or binge-watching your favorite show, no one is going to stop you from doing just that! The staff and other residents understand the desire and need for privacy and respect your right to it. The staff is available to meet your needs and will do so on your time. If you require daily visits, they can be scheduled at a time that works best for you. When you feel like socializing and engaging with others, all you have to do is walk out of your apartment and head down the hall for a visit; you have easy access to the best of both worlds!

The Meals Are Bland and Unappetizing

Today’s senior living communities offer meals that are a far cry from the hospital-like menus that were once served. Now, when you walk into the dining room, you’ll find decor and ambiance that can rival that of a fine dining restaurant. You can take a seat at your favorite table, choosing to dine alone or mingle with other residents. The meals are both flavorful and well-balanced, providing you with nutritious options while still appealing to your taste buds!  

Contributing Author: Alex Milzer, Senior Directory