Don’t let hearsay stop you from living life your way.
If you’re just starting to explore your senior living options, you may be surprised to learn how much has changed over the last few decades. Gone are the days of sterile facilities with limited options for residents. Today’s senior living communities are more like resorts offering a range of amenities and activities to support residents’ overall wellness.
To help dispel some common myths about senior living, we’ve separated fact from fiction. By addressing these misconceptions, we hope to highlight the ways in which senior living can enhance your quality of life for years to come.
MYTH #1
“I’m too young for senior living.”
There’s no “right” age to move to a senior living community. But if you move sooner rather than later, you can make the most of the maintenance-free lifestyle. You’ll have more time to do things you love, meet new people and try new things. From water aerobics and walking clubs to ceramics and life enrichment seminars, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest.
Moving sooner also gives you more time to find the right community, sell your home on your terms, and wait for the perfect floor plan to become available. If you want to move to a Life Plan Community, doing so while in good health gives you contract options that provide access to higher levels of care, if ever needed, at a reduced cost. With a smart plan in place for potential healthcare needs, you can live each day with a greater sense of security and freedom, pursuing your interests with people who share a zest for life.
MYTH #2
“Staying in my home is less expensive.”
Even if you’ve paid off your mortgage, homeownership can still be costly. There are insurance, taxes and maintenance costs. Add to that utilities, lawn care, trash removal and housekeeping, along with groceries, dining, entertainment, transportation and other expenses. Even without a mortgage, the cost of living at home can really add up, especially if you have major repairs or need to replace an HVAC.
By comparison, the all-inclusive monthly fee at a community like Park Place of Elmhurst may not cost more than you’re currently paying to stay in your home. And you’ll no longer be responsible for property taxes, homeowners’ insurance or maintenance. We take care of the chores so you have more time to pursue your interests. Fitness classes, social events, lifelong learning opportunities, special interest groups, dining venues and more are just a short walk from your door.
MYTH #3
“I can get the care I need at home.”
Many people assume that it will be easier and less expensive to stay at home and age in place. That may be true for some people, but the fact remains that someone turning 65 today has a 70% chance of needing some type of long-term care in their remaining years. Hiring in-home care can be expensive, and modifying your home to accommodate disabilities can add even more to the cost.
Of course, no one knows what the future may bring. But having a solid plan in place for the care you may need can give you and your family peace of mind. At Park Place, our Life Care contract ensures access to higher levels of care at predictable monthly rates. Along with a full range of healthcare services, staff members are available 24/7 to provide the care you need.
MYTH #4
“I’ll lose my independence.”
Living an independent lifestyle at home includes a fair amount of chores, meal planning, grocery shopping and to-do lists. But as an independent living resident at a senior living community, you can lead a maintenance-free lifestyle with more time to enjoy your independence.
At Park Place, for example, you’ll find a full calendar of activities to suit your interests. Balance, weight training and aqua fit classes help residents stay strong and active. Social events, outings and an intergenerational program foster a sense of community. A creative arts studio and lifelong learning programs offer opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills. Everything’s set up to support your well-being so you can live life fully.
MYTH #5
“I won’t like the food.”
One of the biggest concerns people have about senior living is the food. At Park Place, our culinary team creates meals that rival some of the best restaurants around. Fresh ingredients and a menu that follows the seasons offer delicious, healthy dishes that residents love.
For a casual dining experience, our Marketplace Bistro is the place to go for breakfast, lunch or a coffee date with friends. For dinner, our Butterfield Dining Room offers an elegant, restaurant-style experience with a rotating menu of seasonal favorites. Of course, you can still cook in your own residence, but sharing a meal with friends and neighbors is not just good for your palate, it’s good for your soul.
Get the facts about life at Park Place.
Don’t let myths keep you from exploring the possibilities for a life you’ll love. Contact us today at 630-936-4504 to speak with one of our Life Plan advisors. We’d be delighted to get to know you better and answer any senior living questions you may have.