byAlma Abell

Washington seniors are choosing to live in retirement communities for various reasons. Independent seniors may feel daunted by the thought of selecting a retirement community. Understanding the different levels of care offered and what questions to ask will give seniors confidence in making the right choice for their lives.

Life in a Retirement Living Community

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Retirement communities are as varied as the people living in them. When most people hear the term retirement living, they associate it with either an independent living community or assisted living. An independent living community is just as the name implies. It is a place where seniors live and conduct their lives without any assistance from others. Certain amenities such as a dining room may be offered to make their lives easier, but not because the senior is unable to perform that task for themselves. Assisted living communities will vary slightly in that it offers some level of care to the resident. Neither type of resident would require any skilled nursing care.

Factors to Consider

Seniors need to envision their life in a retirement community and carefully consider the amenities they will use or enjoy. These amenities will vary based on the individual but include things such as dining services, religious activities, transportation, entertainment, and available assistance. Seniors with pets need to understand the community’s pet policy to see if their pet will be welcome in the community. Certain communities restrict family visits, especially if those families have young children, so understand the policies ahead of time.

How to Choose a Community

Washington seniors first need to decide what area of the country they want to live in. Some seniors decide based on weather and others want to live near family. An bonus to choosing Washington is the lack of state income taxes on any income you earn. Once an area has been chosen, visit several communities in the area to get a feel for what life looks like there. Seniors should try to picture themselves living in the community. Certain seniors want a community that they will never have to leave. In that case, look for a community that offers a progression of services for residents as they age and caring for themselves becomes more difficult. For more information about Retirement Living in Spokane WA, contact Orchard Crest Retirement Community. Like us on Facebook.