Going To A Home Vs. Staying Home

Have you ever heard: “I’m too young to move there”, “I’ll never send my parents to a home,” or “I’m just too active”?  All of those are common phrases we hear every day.  The images of elderly loved ones sitting in a cold, sterile building just waiting for visits or waiting to die are stereotypes lingering in some people’s minds.

And, let’s face it, Hollywood also hasn’t done the retirement communities any favors with such shows as the Simpsons which depictions Grandpa Simpson sitting in a run-down retirement home. Many don’t realize exactly what independent living communities (and assisted living facilities) have to bring to the table.
At Canterbury Manor, our Independent communities, and St. Andrew’s Place, our assisted living, allow seniors to live life to the fullest. Think apartment living but only better. Meals, housekeeping and activities galore. Friendly neighbors sharing similar interest and experiences. Residents are as busy as they want. At Canterbury we have residents who travel the world, volunteer at hospice, putter in the garden and work part time.  At St. Andrew’s Place our residents are still active in the community going to the pool for exercise, playing cards at the senior center, going out to lunch with friends, and even going to college part time.
Staying in an existing home can seem ideal: familiar surroundings and all of your personal belongings in one place. Your children or perhaps a caregiver come help you with chores and maybe your medication. However, there may be negative aspects to remaining in your house people should think about.

• The maintenance of your home may become a burden – not only for you but, also to your family. Yard work, painting, and repairs and the list can grow quickly.
• Living alone can be lonely and lead to boredom especially if you have physical challenges. Increased risk of boredom may lead to severe episodes of depression.
• Strained relation with family if you dependent on your grown children, for help of all kinds. The role reversals can strain relationships and foster unhealthy feelings of resentment, both by you and your sons and daughters.
• Eating habits – you may hate cooking for one or two and stop eating healthy or regularly. Malnutrition can become an issue which will lead to poor health.

Today’s retirement communities and assisted livings are full of life, energy and activities. Before you rule out moving to a retirement community, take the time to tour one or two before you decide it’s not for you (or your parents); you will be pleasantly surprised.
Our communities of Canterbury Manor and St. Andrew’s Place are happy to provide a tour and discussion of our amenities – just give us a call or stop by.