Back Home5 Questions to ask yourself before choosing a retirement home in College Station, TX
You’re on the verge of transitioning from a life of active service to retirement, and this ushers the beginning of your new and exciting journey as a senior adult. Apart from having more time in your hands, you are very much aware that life in your existing home is no longer the same without the kids who have grown up and set out on lives of their own.
At this stage of your life, finding a good home in a reputable retirement community is a smart plan for investing your money. Not only does this allow you to be with people from your same generation but this also addresses the usual concerns about healthcare for senior adults.
The good news is, there’s a myriad of options for retirement communities in Texas; more so, in College Station.
While more popularly known as a college town because of the Texas A&M University campus, you’ll be surprised to know that College Station also houses some of the loveliest retirement communities in Brazos County.
Similar to buying a house in Texas, you also need to understand the process of finding the best retirement community that will suit your specific needs. Part of this involves asking yourself these five questions:
What level of care do I need?
Make an honest self-assessment of your health and capabilities. Can you move around by yourself? Do you need help in certain chores? For a more accurate appraisal, consult your physician. By knowing your health situation, you can better match a retirement community’s services with your needs.
In what community will I thrive in?
Retirement communities offer many living options depending on their residents’ requirements. Here are some of them:
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Independent living suits physically and mentally fit seniors who enjoy a high degree of autonomy in their lifestyle. This community offers many opportunities for socializing and learning. Housekeeping, home maintenance, transportation, and dining services are also available. Overall, independent living communities let their residents enjoy a worry-free and fulfilling life.
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Assisted living is similar to independent living in terms of fun activities and amenities. However, this community provides additional care for senior adults who need assistance in their daily routines. These personal care services can range from meal preparation to housekeeping. Assistance is provided only when needed but a staff member is on call in case of emergencies. This means that assisted living residents don’t require 24/7 supervision.
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Memory care homes are for those struggling with cognitive issues such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Because such residents need specialized care, professional nurses knowledgeable in dementia management are employed. The environment is kept safe and secure to ensure that residents will feel calm and comfortable. These communities usually provide round-the-clock care and use security tools like video surveillance and alarms to protect the home’s occupants.
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Skilled nursing care facilities provide professional medical care for those who can no longer live independently. Trained staff members assist residents with severe illnesses or injuries to move around, bathe, eat and manage medication. Still, these communities endeavor to give residents a good quality of life through personalized services.
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Continuing care retirement communities offer all the above-mentioned levels of care in one place. Many retirees choose to live in these places so that they won’t have to move out when their needs change.
Is the location convenient?
Location is always an important consideration when changing your address. Think about your preferences. Do you want to live close to your family? Does the community sit near establishments you often visit such as hospitals, cinemas. or the airport? It also helps to check the climate and frequent natural hazards in the area.
Do I like the amenities and services offered?
Make an inventory of amenities offered by each community. See if their services appeal to your interests. For example, if you like sports, then choose a community that has a well-equipped fitness area. When making inquiries, ask for the schedule of daily activities. From there, you can check if their programs suit your lifestyle and hobbies.
Can I afford it?
Generally, more amenities equate to higher costs. So, before moving, it’s always wise to check your financial situation. Consider the upfront and monthly fees. Check how much additional services cost, which you may avail of in the future.
Transitioning to your senior years may be challenging but these may also be the best years of your life, especially if you choose a retirement home in a community that maximizes your potential as a senior adult. Make sure you choose the right one.
Whether it’s a retirement community you’re aiming for in Texas or buying a house here, you can get the best real estate advice from Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Caliber Realty. This team of agents is capable of providing full services from life planning for first-time buyers to helping empty nesters in buying their dream home. Get in touch with the team at 979.694.8844 or send an email to sales(at)bhhscaliber(dotted)com to jumpstart your real estate journey.
