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What are the Pros and Cons of Senior Living?

September 1, 2023

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Before making a decision, it’s natural to weigh the pros and cons. The same can be said when making a decision about senior living. At Franciscan Ministries, we want to ensure that you understand the realities of choosing a  senior living community so your family can live joyfully every day. 

Below, we answer the question: What are the pros and cons of senior living? to help you make an informed decision for yourself or someone you love.

Pro #1: Community & Connection

Senior living communities help to alleviate feelings of loneliness by providing a welcoming environment with opportunities to socialize with fellow residents through apartment-style living spaces and regularly planned events and outings. It’s the perfect setting for older adults to meet new people and form meaningful friendships. 

Pro #2: Opportunities for Active Living

As we get older and focus on careers, raising families and maintaining homes, we tend to set hobbies and passions aside to make room for other responsibilities. However, once a person reaches retirement age and has more free time, they might be unsure how to get back in touch with these passions. 

Senior living communities provide resources and tools that residents need to explore new pastimes and dive back into their favorite hobbies. For example, planned activities and programs can reintroduce older adults to passions that spark their creativity and bring them joy.

It’s also an excellent time to try new things! For instance, if you’ve always wanted to learn how to play an instrument, try your hand at painting or even sign up for a continued education course, senior living communities can help you reach these goals!

Pro #3: An Environment to Focus on Wellness

The activities and amenities provided by senior living communities also offer another benefit – the chance to focus on wellness. Many who live at home alone lack the resources and motivation needed to get out and find ways to prioritize their mental or physical wellbeing. 

Senior living communities make it easy by providing fitness opportunities and classes to keep residents moving and/or offer life-enriching programs that focus on the dimensions of wellness to create an exceptional quality of life. 

Con #1: Cost Considerations

Similar to the housing market, the cost of senior living will vary by state, city or overall geographic location. In addition, the level of care needed can impact the cost of a senior living community. 

However, before you overlook senior living due to cost, it’s important to understand that this cost includes more than just housing accommodations, such as:

  • Care services
  • Maintenance services
  • Utilities
  • Entertainment
  • Security features
  • Dining options
  • On-site amenities
  • Classes, programs and activities 

When you compare this list to the cost of living at home, the price of a senior living community may be a more budget-friendly option. 

Con #2: Changing Needs

As we age, our health and care needs can change. As a result, this can lead to an individual having to move from one community to another in order to get the appropriate level of support.

Fortunately, choosing a community that offers a full spectrum of care can ensure you can remain in the community you love and still get the care you need. Franciscan Communities offer a continuum of care that enable residents to comfortably live in a supportive and vibrant community, regardless of their personal limitations and capabilities. We offer a complete range of quality health services designed to meet the specific, often changing needs of our residents, including:

  • Independent living
  • Assisted living
  • Memory care
  • Skilled nursing care
  • Rehabilitation
  • Respite Care

Con #3: Downsizing and Facing New Changes

Moving can be a stressful experience for anyone. Many individuals have to downsize before moving to a senior living community, which can create feelings of concern and anxiety as you recognize the significance of this change. 

However, changing your mindset about downsizing and moving can make a huge difference – mentally and emotionally. For instance, gather friends and family to help you go through your possessions, furniture and other belongings, and take time to reminisce about the important memories that happened in your home. Enjoy the feeling of knowing that your loved ones are there to help you each and every step of the way as you prepare for this exciting new step in your life. 

Choosing senior living is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of the pros and cons. Each individual’s circumstances and preferences should be considered when making this choice, ensuring it aligns with their goals for a fulfilling and rewarding retirement.

We invite you to explore our Franciscan Communities and find one that’s right for you or someone you love.