Retirement 101: At Home vs. Independent Living
Your post-retirement plans should be about creating a life of fulfillment. But it can get complicated when you start putting pen to paper and planning your next move. One question can start to lead to another:
Should I live at home or downsize to a smaller space? What kind of help do I need? What do I want my life to look like every day? How is my life going to change? And most importantly, will I like it?
To help cut out the clutter of all these questions, we’re breaking down one of the most common questions we hear at The Davis Community: What’s the difference between retirement at home or an independent living community, and which one is right for me?
At Home Care vs. Independent Living Communities
There are a few ways we can break down the differences—we’ll start by breaking down five of the top considerations people have when planning for retirement. From the living environment to daily tasks or costs, you’ll have the foundational information you need to help make your final decision.
Environment
It can be hard to consider leaving the neighborhood you call home for something new and different. You already know the people, the places, the grocery stores, and the local spots to enjoy a drink. We understand that a feeling of familiarity and a home you love can feel hard to leave.
Independent living environments, like The Davis Retirement Community in Wilmington, NC, are designed to help you maintain the vibrant lifestyle you love. But the freedom these communities offer means you can still stay connected to your old life while celebrating and exploring what’s ahead.
And let’s not forget the excitement of designing a new living space! Our cottages and apartments offer beautiful floor plans, just waiting for your favorite decorations and furniture.
Social Life
Independent living communities offer plenty of opportunities to help you maintain your preferred social life. Various activities await future residents of The Davis Community; you can choose to participate as little or as much as you like!
Keep in mind that it can be more challenging to keep up with a busy calendar as we age. Plan to arrange alternative transportation methods for weekly activities if you choose to stay at your home. If you are part of a senior living community, the staff can help you organize any necessary transportation (and, honestly, most activities will be right in your background).
Daily Tasks
Retirement is a time to kick back, relax, and enjoy the finer things in life. But when you stay at home, there are still chores to be done! Hire services for cleaning, food delivery, and yard work to maximize your time and protect your health.
Our retirement community in Wilmington, NC, knows that day-to-day tasks take away from your day, so we take on the work for you. Our team will take care of all household tasks, yardwork, and general cleaning needs. And if you don’t want to cook, you don’t have to worry! Our onsite restaurants will become the perfect location for a relaxing dinner.
Healthcare
Just as our lives change, our needs change! Access to quality healthcare is essential for our happiness and well-being. At home, you’ll need to build a network around you that can adapt to your health needs over time. In contrast, care evolves as you do in a senior living community—you can increase your specialized support over time.
Budgeting and Cost
You probably already have a good idea of your current budget plan. But how does that compare to living costs in a senior community? We get this question a lot, and while the final number depends on your personal preferences, it’s good to understand how it works.
After paying your entrance fee, you only have to worry about a monthly service fee for utilities, amenities, programs, and some meals. And then, based on your preferences, the team will adjust your final cost to meet your healthcare needs.
Making Your Final Decision
Visiting a community in person is one of the best ways to really see for yourself if an independent living community is a good fit for you. If you want to speak with one of our sales team members or staff, reach out today! We can’t wait to answer your questions and help maximize your retirement. Reach out to one of our experienced retirement specialists today!