By Anica Oaks
The National Center for Health Statistics has released studies that show upwards of 1.4 million Americans currently live in retirement homes. While this is a good option for some, many families and couples are now looking for alternatives that will more closely align with their own wishes and lifestyle. For those that would like to further explore their options, here are four unique choices that may be a great option in the coming years.
1. Home Modifications
When seniors and their families decide that it may be time to begin explore new living options, it is often due to the layout of their current home. As one’s mobility and dexterity decline, they often find that there are trouble spots throughout the home that making living alone difficult. Home modifications such as ramps on steps, stairs lifts, and walk-in showers could make a house safer and more hospitable. Lowering tables and counters and placing goods on lower shelves also simplify many daily tasks.
2. On-Property Cottages
For those that are not quite ready to share the main house with a multi-generational family, on-property cottages could keep a family close to one another without feeling crowded. These cottages often start off as low as $50,000 and can be fully customized any way that the family would wish with all the amenities of the central home such as bathrooms and kitchens.
3. Retirement Congregate Living
Congregate living communities have become another great choice for those that would like to live an active or semi-active life. Communities like Harrison Congregate Living with retirement homes in Surrey offer affordable and private living areas such as suites, cottages, or duplex-style homes. They allow the elderly to maintain their own personal space, continue to engage in the activities that they love, and still have immediate access to any and all assistance that they would need with trained staff.
4. Live-In Caregivers
Live-in caregivers are another alternative for those that would like to enjoy a more independent life but are still in need of assistance. Caregivers range from specialists that come in just once or twice a week to those that live in the home full-time in their own room. They can help with cooking, cleaning, hygiene, dispensing medication, and even providing transportation for those that would like to head out of the home.
Everyone wants to feel comfortable in their own living space, especially those that are now finding a need for alternative living options. These four choices allow people to avoid retirement homes while still enjoying their golden years.