Misconceptions about what a retirement residence really is and what life looks like living in one still exist. Some people may assume retirement communities are just for seniors who require care support, while others may assume that choosing to live in one may result in a loss of independence and freedom.
In fact, the reality is quite the opposite, as many seniors living in retirement homes will tell you. They aren’t your grandmother’s nursing homes; rather, they are welcoming and vibrant places that not only offer personalized support, but offer rich social and recreational opportunities, as well as conveniences like delicious dining and housekeeping.
Here are four common myths that are just begging to be debunked:
Myth #1:I’ll lose my independence.
There’s a reason you’ll often see “independent living” describing the lifestyle at many retirement residences: that’s because it is! Residents can come and go as they please, do what they want (or don’t) and live their lives as they choose. In fact, they often gainmoreindependence, freed from daily chores such as cleaning, home maintenance, shopping and other tasks. Some seniors find that gives them time to begin (or rekindle) new hobbies or passions, or spend more time with friends or family. The result is often a redefined sense of independence—and self.
Myth #2:There’s no need to move until my health declines.
今天的退休住宅是为那些喜欢他们充满活力的社区的活跃的老年人设计的，并且有一种安心的心态，因为他们知道如果需要的话，随时可以提供支持服务。许多新居民表示，他们希望自己能早点搬进来，喜欢他们的新空间，喜欢他们发现的各种各样的活动和繁忙的社交生活。事实上，许多人甚至报告说，自从搬家后，他们的健康状况有所改善。当你不为健康问题所累时，你在生活中做出重要改变的压力也会小得多。
Myth #3:It’s too expensive.
It pays to explore all your options by shopping around and visiting residences that appeal to you, taking into account what affordability means to you. It can also be illuminating to tally current expenses living in your own home. (Chartwell has a usefulBudget Assistant工具可以做到这一点。)你可能会惊讶于你在维护你的家，购买杂货，带来额外的家庭或医疗支持，甚至进行无障碍装修上花了多少钱。与住在老年人住宅的价值相比，反思一下无忧无虑的生活、不用做饭(如果你选择的话)、不用铲雪或更换屋顶的收益，你可能会发现投资退休生活方式对你的情况有很大意义。
Myth #4:The food is boring and bland.
Ricotta spinach lasagna? Baby arugula and honey roasted pecan and apple salad? Raspberry buckle torte? Today’s seniors have no time—or taste—for retirement residence food of old, and are much more likely to tuck into diverse, delicious and nutritionally-balanced dishes. Also keep in mind that many residences offer full or partial kitchens in their suites so you can still cook your own meals if you wish. Visit several residences during meal times: that’s a perfect opportunity to check out the food and speak with residents in the dining room.
如果你正在考虑退休生活方式，check out our “Exploring Retirement Living”Guide for more information.