Most of our lives are governed by stages created by others. By 7, you’re supposed to have reached the age of reason, and by 18 you can vote, join the military and marry. At 21, you can legally drink. At 30, you might be gunning for a promotion at work, and around 65, you have finally reached your retirement years.
But the one life event no one can determine for you is the right time to join an independent living community where you can do as much — or as little — as you please. For many of us, it’s the last major decision we’ll make, and it’s one that can extend our lives by years and even increase independence and happiness.
But there’s a catch: You don’t have all the time in the world to make this decision. Waiting too long to move to an independent living community not only limits your options but can feel like a loss of independence.
Moving earlier to a high-end independent living community like Ovation Heartwood Preserve can help you maintain your independence and allow you to enjoy the same, if not a higher, quality of life than before.
Freed from maintaining a house and grounds, you’re able to focus on socializing and making new friends, enjoying country club-like amenities like pools and fitness centers, and pursuing hobbies and personal interests that were paused while advancing careers and raising children.
Americans turning 65 today have an almost 70% chance of needing some type of long-term care, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. So when is the right time to transition to a senior living community? Ideally, you’ll want to have a plan for senior living before you need it.
According to Where You Live Matters, a nonprofit senior living service, there are four signs that you may be ready now.
1. You realize that you’re tired of looking after the big house where you raised your family. Rooms that are now rarely used still require dusting and vacuuming. Stairs up to bedrooms and down to basements are harder and riskier to climb.
2. You find yourself increasingly concerned about your health. Seemingly overnight, everyday activities like showering, cooking and climbing ladders and stairs become potential hazards. You also worry about becoming a burden on family members in the future.
3. Though it’s hard to admit, you may be lonely. As we age, retire and possibly lose a partner or spouse, social circles shrink, leaving us prone to isolation and depression. At times like these, senior communities like Ovation Heartwood Preserve sound increasingly inviting with their planned events and activities, upscale dining options and a community of members of the same age and similar backgrounds.
4. You can no longer safely drive or travel without assistance. Your eyesight and hearing aren’t what they once were, your reaction times have slowed, and you’re increasingly reliant on family members, friends and neighbors.
When these issues crop up, it’s a sign you may be ready to consider the move. But there’s a very compelling reason to consider it even earlier: By settling in to the active and engaging lifestyle at an independent living community well before you need assisted living services, you reduce stress on yourself and your family, increasing security and peace of mind for all involved.
For more information about Independent Living at Ovation Heartwood Preserve, or to schedule a tour, please call 402.576.4010 or visit all of the communities at ovationheartwoodpreserve.com.
