Retirement Focus

Let’s be honest here – what do you think of when you imagine a retirement community? Clinical rooms. Hospital beds. Nurses. How about rich wood banisters and chandeliers? A concierge who greets you when you walk through the door? Indoor pools and a model train room? 

One thing we can’t deny is that aging happens. But you don’t have to lower your standards of living just because you’re retired (or will be someday). In fact, these should be the best years of your life. You worked hard to get where you are – retirement is the time to kick back and enjoy.

The truth of the matter is, though, most Americans don’t want to admit they’re entering their golden years. According to the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging, in the year 2020, 12 million older Americans will need some sort of long-term care, and it’s never to early to start weighing the options. Lauren Shaham, vice president of member communications and media relations at the AAHSH, it’s important to get the facts before you feel you need them.

“It’s hard for us to imagine we would ever need any assisted living care,” she said. “But statistics show it’s highly likely we will. It makes sense to know what’s available in your community early on so you know what your options and preferences would be.”

Whether you’re looking for a community that provides health services, a full schedule of activities or you simply don’t want to worry about mowing the lawn and shoveling snow, there are options out there that can cater to your every need.

According to William Ross, vice president of operations for Shannondell at Valley Forge in Audobon, communities have evolved significantly in the past 15 years. “Before, all that was really available was housing and some basic services,” Ross said. “You would hear old-folks home, and think of a quite building that housed sick, elderly people. Now, perceptions are shifting.”

Enter the Continuing Care Retirement Community, or CCRC. CCRCs offer independent housing, meals, transportation, socialization and activities, as well as certain healthcare needs. In other words, they offer seniors an active lifestyle, minus the concerns of home maintenance, meal preparation and, in the case of Shannondell, even cleaning.

“This type of living allows people to be involved in the community, focus on their interests and hobbies, without the worry of day-to-day,” said Ross. “Some still work, many volunteer, and others travel.”

As the needs of residents change, most CCRCs also offer skilled nursing care, facilities for those suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia, and basic assisted living facilities.

Developer Del Markward of the Markward Group said that these types of facilities are in demand. He is currently planning a mixed-use community in Quakertown, which would encompass 400 to 600 units.

“The country warehouses the elderly too much,” he said. “I’m looking to create a community that promotes life, with walking trails, vistas, trees and active living.”

Levels of Care

Beyond the CCRC, there are other options available for those seeking care for themselves or aging family members.

Personal Care Homes
Personal Care Homes are licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare. They provide housing, meals and assistance in activities or daily living.

Long-Term Care Facilities
Also known as nursing homes, these are licensed and regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, providing skilled or intermediate nursing care. This care is best suited for those requiring 24-hour assistance. A portion of the costs incurred can be covered by Medicaid or Medicare.

Home Care
This option allows seniors to remain in the comfort of their homes, while receiving healthcare, transportation, assistance with daily tasks, meal preparation and more.

How to Decide

Selecting a facility is a decision you may not be ready to make, but getting the facts now will make it easier in the future.

Melanie Loder, a nurse who currently works in home care for Community Home Services in Montgomery County, said that in her experience, at-home help is the best way for seniors to maintain an active lifestyle. “Today, retirement is just the next phase, and they expect to live a full and healthy life,” she said. “It’s important for people to remember that the services they need are available in their homes.”

If you choose to move, Loder recommends visiting potential communities to get a feel for the lifestyles of the residents.

“Make sure you make a list of what you want from a community,” she said. “For some people, the available activities are important, for others, transportation options are at the top of the list. Some people want a golf course, and other people want the facility to provide three meals a day. Find out if the units are free-standing homes, or apartment units.”

Loder also suggests those in search of a community find out about the facility’s hiring practice and screening process. “You want to be comfortable with the people who are taking care of you,” she said. “I also recommend you spend as much time as possible in the community, talk to residents, enjoy a meal, get a feel for how people are living.”

Shaham said that community reputation is the best indicator of a top-notch community. “Ask around and see what people like,” she said. “Then figure out what you want – do you prefer a big place or a small place, what are the services that you may need, see if the facility offers healthcare, nursing and assisted living.”

The priority is to find a place that is comfortable and welcoming. After all, at the end of the day, you want to find a community that feels like home.