Why older adults often view moving into a senior living community as a gift to their children

It’s no secret that caring for an aging loved one can be as challenging as it is rewarding. Family caregivers often experience clinically significant signs of depression, have less time available to spend with friends and other family members, and sacrifice financially by taking time away from their careers or retiring early.

But continuing care retirement communities (CCRC) like Lawrence Presbyterian Manor can alleviate some of that stress.

“When my wife and I decided to move into a C.C.R.C., just before Christmas, we told each of our six children that our decision represented the most significant gift we had ever given them.”

A resident at continuing care retirement community gave the above comment for an interview in a 2009 New York Time article titled, “The Bright Side of C.C.R.C.s.” Comments like this are common from both residents and their adult children.

A continuing care retirement community offers enough options so that seniors can age in place. It allows residents to receive the level of support and care they require as their needs change in the years ahead. Such communities typically have assisted living and healthcare services on campus, available to residents who moved in for independent living but now need more assistance.

Lawrence Presbyterian Manor provides such options:

·        Independent Living for active adults

·        Assisted living for seniors who need some extra help with their daily tasks

·        Long-term care for seniors who need medical care and skilled nursing services

Such a community can reduce the burden on adult children and give them peace of mind that their parents are being taken care of. A study of 3,700 family members of CCRC residents revealed that 93% feel that the community is providing good services to their loved ones and 74% would be likely or very likely to consider a continuing care retirement community for themselves in the future. Cited as the most important features of the community were transportation services, availability of a fitness center, housekeeping services, emergency call systems, and the availability of assisted living and healthcare services. Many respondents felt that a CCRC would provide their family member more personal safety and better socialization.

Whether you are considering a continuing care retirement community for yourself or a loved one, finding the right fit requires doing proper research and due diligence. Contract details and pricing can vary dramatically from one provider to another. It is important to be sure you that the community you are considering is a good match for your lifestyle, finances, and other preferences, and that it is well-managed, both operationally and financially. Be sure to consider what’s important to you:

·         Geographic location

·         Immediate availability (or wait list)

·         Must-have amenities (restaurant, library, chapel, walking trails, etc.)

·         Essential services (health, wellness, housekeeping, meals, etc.)

If you’re unsure whether a move to a continuing care community like Newton Presbyterian Manor is a good idea, we can help guide you towards the right decision for you. Contact us online or call Stacey Bertz at 785-841-4262 or email her at sbertz@pmma.org.