Aging is an inevitable part of life. As such, it is best if people plan as to where they plan to spend their retirement years. There are a variety of options from which the elderly can choose. However, the two most popular options are that of a retirement community and a nursing home.
One burning question remains, however. Which is a better choice between the two?
What is a retirement community?
A retirement community (or in other terms, a retirement village) is a place that is built for housing older people who can take care of themselves. On the other hand, some retirement communities do offer to take care of senior citizens with the help of home care agencies. To further boost the overall wellness of the residents, most communities also help them socialize and lead an active life.
Generally speaking, retirement communities allow old people to settle down in a safe location while maintaining a sense of independence. A retirement community houses people in the retirement age, who have partially or fully retired from work.
What is a nursing home?
While a few old people can live alone, there are those who will need professional care. Some frequently require care due to ill health or disabilities. Nursing homes provide these needs of sick or disabled older adults.
A nursing home, in short, is a place to care for people who do not require hospitalization but need someone to take care of them because they do not have a caregiver at home. Most nursing homes have their skilled nurses and nursing aides who are on call 24/7.
What are the advantages of being in a retirement community?
People love to be productive in their lives. The elderly are no exception. It might be an excellent decision to consider being in a retirement community (that is if they fit to be in one). The following list enumerates some of the perks which come with being in such a location:
Low Property Maintenance. Although folks who live in retirement communities are still able to perform home maintenance tasks, it is not an absolute requirement for them. This is because the majority of such communities include property maintenance in their array of offered services. This may consist of: tidying up the home yard in various seasons. With this service on hand for them, the community’s residents get more free time to focus on doing the things which they love.
Convenience. Now, who wouldn’t want the convenience of having almost every need within your reach? Most would desire this, including the elderly. A resident in a retirement community can avail of the fitness and health care facilities to ensure they’re in the pink of their health! They do not have to own a vehicle too, because communities do offer their members transportation.
Better Quality of Living. Studies show the positive effects of staying in touch socially by the elderly. These benefits include a longer life span, a sturdier immune system, and a lower risk of mental deterioration. Retirement communities make it easier for people with similar interests to connect and build bonds with each other.
What are the advantages of being in a nursing home?
While there are many benefits to living in a retirement community, some elders do not prefer doing it. Thus, another option for them is to live in a nursing home. The list below cites some of the advantages of nursing homes:
Assistance with Daily Living. Some elderly are in dire need of assistance with daily tasks. Nursing homes are the perfect means for them to get this aid. That’s because almost all of the houses do help their residents in necessary activities such as taking a bath, eating, drinking, and using the toilet.
Chances for Social Interaction. As with other people, the elderly also have an innate need to socialize. Senior citizens in nursing homes can partake in the activities within the nursing home to bond with fellow residents. They will get to meet people their age and with similar interests.
Health Care Services. Some require constant supervision in terms of health care due to illnesses or disabilities. Nursing homes provide these services, thereby ensuring the improved general well-being of their residents.
Now that you know the advantages of living in a retirement community and a nursing home, which one would you prefer when your retirement comes?