Boomers look for options that give them lifestyle choices in retirement

Being independent and resilient is an integral part to a happy life. As we age, however, some things naturally become more challenging to do on our own. When this happens, it’s time to consider the options for senior living.

As a Senior Real Estate Specialist, Kathy Bryant recognizes that deciding when and where to move—or to stay at home—can be a difficult, and sometimes confusing, discussion. That’s why she advises her clients that the importance of addressing these issues early on cannot be overstated.

“Whether a senior is thinking about moving or staying in their home, they should be proactive and do their research up front; find out about in-home care agencies and different retirement communities; come up with a plan, and let the people they care about and who care about them, know what they’re going to do,” Kathy says.

“The worst thing that can happen,” she warns, “is that a crisis occurs and nobody knows where they’re going or what they’re going to do.”

Right at Home

Studies show that 80 percent of adults 75 and older prefer to age in place in their own home because they are familiar with their surroundings, and that’s where they feel most comfortable. To do that, they may need some support, and that’s where in-home care services fill a very significant need.

“The goal is to help people be as independent as possible,” says Tiffany Murphy, owner of Senior Helpers. “Some people can’t be totally independent, so we’re really there to ensure their safety and wellness . . . we want to make sure that the person is aging comfortably in their home as long as possible.”

Getting that help means allowing a stranger in the home—and that can be a deterrent to some. But not to worry. With the right match between client and caregiver, a supportive relationship forms. The services are helpful, and the caregiver becomes someone the individual enjoys having as a friendly visitor.

“There is a great deal of security for a senior who knows that there are people who care,” says Sherrie Turner, owner of AdvantagePlusCaregivers.com.

From personality types to special needs and training, there are many factors that need to be considered. “If you choose a professional care agency, you are dealing with experience to make those decisions,” Turner says, adding that one of the most important assurances is that agency carries liability insurance for their employees who are qualified and credentialed caregivers. “The agency takes the responsibility of managing with the caregiver, working with schedules, and evaluating caregiver and client to ensure the best match.”

Caregivers also give family members the assurance that elders are in safe hands. Especially if family is out of the area, the caregiver can report on the client’s condition, so there are fewer worries. Many services are taking advantage of technology to take communication to the next level. Love at Home Senior Care, for example, engages family and caregivers through an online “Family Room” portal that provides family members with information on upcoming schedules, the caregiver profiles, medications, and even details down to the tasks that were completed during each shift.

Moving Forward

Many people think they don’t need a retirement community because they’re still physically independent. The truth is that at some point it’s likely that some level of care will be required, and since moving can present upheaval in life, why not look into a retirement community that offers a continuum of care options allowing an individual a seamless transition from independent living to assisted living and even memory care?

The sooner the move is made, the sooner one can take advantage of the socialization aspect of a community of like-minded residents, and in-house amenities such as restaurant style dining, fitness centers and swimming pools, massage therapy, live entertainment, craft classes, religious services, and even complimentary transportation around town.

“The honest answer is that many people are waiting too long . . . they’re afraid of losing the independence of their lifestyle when really just the opposite is true,” says Sandra Bachmeyer, sales and marketing manager at Brookdale South Regal.

“There’s a misconception that they’re going to a ‘nursing home’ or that they’re going to lose all their choices,” Bachmeyer says. “In our assisted living, for example, you rent your apartment, and it’s purpose-built as a secure environment with amenities like walk-in showers, grab bars, and emergency call buttons, so that you can do all your normal activities of daily living yourself, but if you need help someone is always available.”

For those who need a higher level of assistance, especially those with dementia, Bachmeyer says it’s to their advantage to transition to a community set up to provide specialty care earlier than later because it will be easier for that person to become acclimated to their new surroundings and daily routines.

Learning Curve

Continuing education on subjects such as fall prevention, home health, disease prevention, improving memory functions, and even health insurance issues, plays a large part in one’s ability to stay independent longer.

“Healthy living is going to be very important moving forward because Baby Boomers are so health conscious, and so we stay up on what’s happening in order to keep people on top,” says Claudia Ouwerkerk, senior living manager and marketing director of Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society Spokane Valley.

Good Samaritan takes the sharing of knowledge a step further, inviting Gonzaga University nursing students to complete their clinical rotations within the community. “We’re supporting future nurses for tomorrow, which is a big deal with the current nursing shortage and making Spokane stronger when it comes to healthcare,” Claudia says.

Fitness Minded

Fitness doesn’t refer just to strength and conditioning. According to Riverview Retirement Community recreational therapy director, Kayla Schreiber, mental fitness is becoming just as important.

“Memory care needs have risen significantly, so we’re not only trying to find ways to prevent falls and improve memory, but we’re also trying to focus on the individual’s specific level of memory impairment,” Kayla says. “With the younger residents—and those with little to no memory issues—we offer a variety of outings, such as trips to the civic theatre or on scenic drives.

“Many times, we’re not only maintaining, but also improving functions and ability, because they may not have had a recreational lifestyle before,” Kayla says. “It’s important that we assess them when they come to the community, and if they don’t have a favorite activity, we will help them find one that suits them best.”

Eating it UP

A common misconception—and often a reason cited for not wanting to move to a retirement community—is that the food isn’t that good and the choices are limited. With an emphasis on quality, flexibility, and nutrition, today’s retirement communities boast delicious and healthy menus created by registered dietitians and prepared by skilled chefs. Dining venue options are just as varied.

The Summit apartment tower at the South Hill campus of Rockwood Retirement Communities is one of the most modern in the region, akin to a resort village; the features include art studio, event and meeting spaces, library, fitness center and full-service salon and spa. What really sets the facility apart are the dining options with special themed restaurants including Ember’s Grill, Rocky’s Café (coffee shop), Fireside Lounge (bistro style dining) and Livingston’s (fine dining). There’s even a convenient point-of-sale system that allows residents to easily use meal credits.

“The tower has altered everything you’ve ever known about retirement living,” says Lisa VanMansum, communications coordinator at Rockwood Retirement Communities. “Seniors are living far more socially and actively—they are able to live energetic and vital lives with the services that we provide.

“Come over to The Summit at six or seven o’clock at night,” Lisa says. “You’d be surprised how energetic and fun the restaurants are with all of our residents interacting together.”