As we age, many of us are faced with the decision of whether or not to move into a senior community. For some, living amongst our peers is an attractive option. Others may find living in a retirement community daunting and prefer to stay in place. Regardless of which camp you find yourself in, you must be informed about the top amenities offered by senior communities before deciding. Keep reading to learn more.
Senior Communities
There are many different types of senior communities. The most common are independent living, retirement communities, and assisted living. Independent living communities are for seniors who want to live independently but don’t want the hassle of home ownership or maintenance. Retirement communities are for seniors ready to downsize and leave the responsibilities of home ownership behind. These communities usually have on-site nursing care, social activities, and transportation.
Assisted living communities are for seniors who need a little help with day-to-day activities, like bathing and dressing. Several specialized senior communities also include memory care communities and nursing homes. Memory care communities are for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. These communities offer around-the-clock care and specialized programming. Nursing homes are for seniors who need 24-hour nursing care. They offer a wide variety of medical services and social activities.
Professional On-Site Staffing
Professional on-site staffing is a top amenity offered by many senior communities. This means there is always someone on site who can help with any needs or questions you may have. Some of the most common types of on-site staffing include nurses and nurse aides, personal care assistants, activity directors, social workers, and more. Nurses and nurse aides provide basic medical care and assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing. They may also take vital signs, record medical information, and administer medication.
Personal care assistants help seniors with more intensive needs. Activity directors plan and organize social and recreational activities for residents. Social workers provide emotional support and guidance, as well as assistance with accessing community resources. Having professional on-site staff available around the clock can be a real lifesaver for seniors and their families.
Walking Tracks
There are many different types of walking tracks available in senior communities. Some tracks are made of asphalt or concrete, while others are made of rubber. The length and width of the track can also vary depending on the community’s needs. Some walking and running tracks have curves and hills to make the experience more varied and challenging, while others are completely flat. In addition, some tracks have lanes designated for walkers, runners, and cyclists, while others allow for free-form use.
One of the benefits of a running track is that it is a great way to get exercise without having to leave the community. This is especially beneficial for seniors who may not be able to walk or run long distances. Additionally, a running track can provide a social environment for residents who enjoy being active together.
Dining Options
There are many dining options available to seniors in assisted living. The most common option is a full-service restaurant where residents can enjoy a meal any time of the day or night. These restaurants often have menus with varied choices that include traditional favorites and more contemporary cuisine. Some communities also have cafes, grills, and pub-style eateries on site. In addition to restaurants, many communities offer catering services for special events such as birthday parties or holiday celebrations.
They may also have food delivery available for those who don’t feel like leaving their apartment but still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal. And finally, many complexes feature well-stocked grocery stores so residents can cook their meals if they prefer.
