Barb King :
Through Living Well at Asbury , you live life at your best .
INDUSTRY INSIGHT
CONTINUING CARE
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO CONSIDER A RETIREMENT COMMUNITY ?
With nearly two million individuals in the state of Pennsylvania over the age of 65 , the question on the minds of many is , “ When is the best time to consider a retirement community ?” Unfortunately , there is not a prescribed age or precise answer to this question .
A continuing care retirement community ( CCRC ) is designed to meet all of an individual ’ s needs as he / she ages . CCRCs provide accommodations for independent living , personal care and nursing care . Many individuals prefer a hassle-free lifestyle in retirement and choose to move into a CCRC so they have more time to enjoy a busy , active schedule and spend less time on lawn maintenance and household chores .
Moving to a CCRC is a big decision and involves organization and planning . Waiting too long , however , may mean missing out on the many benefits that independent living at a CCRC provides .
The most common theme heard among residents at Asbury Heights in Mt . Lebanon is “ I wish I hadn ’ t waited so long .” Here are some of the reasons why those considering a CCRC are postponing their decision :
I like my independence , and I don ’ t want to give it up . At a CCRC , your independence is encouraged . Your lifestyle doesn ’ t change . The only thing that changes is your address . At a CCRC , you will
Barb King :
“ I love Asbury Heights . The people are very , very friendly . And , there are so many excellent opportunities to go to classes or to stimulate your mind with a music program or a book review . There is always something to do at Asbury .”
Through Living Well at Asbury , you live life at your best .
Learn more by arranging a tour today , 1-888-424-8404 , or visiting us online at www . asburyheights . org .
Independent Living | Personal Care Nursing & Rehabilitation Memory Support
SPONSORED CONTENT
continue coming and going as you please but without the worries of household maintenance . Many individuals have the misconception that a CCRC is a nursing home . Most independent living residents enjoy an active lifestyle for years before they may require personal care or nursing care .
I don ’ t know where to begin to downsize , and moving is a lot of work . Downsizing can be stressful , but the stress can be minimized in a variety of ways . Many CCRCs work with a moving specialist who is an expert organizer available to assist you . In addition , downsizing is a great opportunity to identify special items and mementos that you can share with loved ones and pass along . Other items may have monetary value that requires the skill of an appraiser . Discovering their value is exciting and makes for great family storytelling and provides extra cash if you choose to sell them .
Financially speaking , I ’ d rather leave the money for my children . Although we can share what others in similar situations have decided is best for them , it is always advisable to seek expert advice from a financial planner or elder law attorney . And the best gift to your children is giving them peace of mind knowing that you have planned for your future needs .
I ’ m going to stay in my home until I need help . There ’ s no doubt that it ’ s hard to leave the home you ’ ve lived in for many years . However , staying in your home until you can no longer live independently makes a move that much more difficult . Waiting until your health needs are greater can make a move more challenging both physically and emotionally .
The right time to make a move to a CCRC varies from individual to individual and requires careful thought and consideration . At Asbury Heights , our team of experts will help guide you and provide resources that minimize the stress of moving and get you engaged with your new neighbors and various activities in no time . Visit our campus , meet our residents and staff , and learn firsthand what makes Asbury special and why so many call it home by calling 412.571.5133 or visit us online at www . asburyheights . org .
This Industry Insight was written by John Komisary .
John is Director of Sales and Marketing at Asbury Heights and has extensive experience working with older adults in continuing care retirement communities in Pittsburgh .
Mt . Lebanon | Winter 2016 | icmags . com 45