As we age, there comes a time when we want more support and community in our daily lives. It might be that our children have moved away, we’ve retired from work and become lonely living in our family home on our own. For many, this means selling the family home and considering living in a downsized space or a retirement home. A retirement home offers both a level of independence with support, amenities and an in-built community. Although everyone knows the term “retirement home,” many aren’t quite sure what a retirement home is and how it differs from other living arrangements.
Understanding What a Retirement Home
A retirement home, also known as a retirement community or senior living facility, is a residential complex for retired adults. It is designed specifically for older adults who are generally able to care for themselves but may benefit from some assistance from time to time. Retirement homes are also communities, providing a range of different housing options depending on the facility tailored to meet the diverse preferences of its residents.
Retirement homes are not nursing homes, which involve a much greater care for seniors with more serious medical conditions. Nursing homes typically house seniors who are recovering from an injury, cancer, or a stroke, have Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or another chronic condition, or those with more general trouble caring for themselves such that they require 24/7 care.
At Delmanor, we understand that choosing a retirement home is a significant decision. It’s your new home, and it’s often about discovering a new chapter in life. For this, we hope to fill it with comfort, security, and opportunities for social engagement, making it some of the best years of your life.
The Key Features to Look for in a Good Retirement Home
- Independent Living: Residents maintain their independence and can live rich, full lives with plenty of private space.
- Supportive Services: Assistance with daily tasks such as housekeeping, laundry, and meal preparation to make life easier.
- Social Activities: A calendar full of exciting events and social activities to promote a rich, active lifestyle.
- Safety and Security: 24/7 staff presence and emergency response systems for peace of mind.
- Healthcare Access: Great retirement homes offer on-site medical care or easy access to healthcare facilities in case of medical emergencies.
- Ample Amenities: Common areas like dining rooms, fitness centers, libraries, and gardens that foster a sense of community.
Why a Retirement Home?
Retirement homes differ from other senior living options in several ways. Unlike nursing homes, which provide round-the-clock medical care for those with significant health issues, retirement homes cater to largely independent seniors who would like some assistance with daily tasks. On the other hand, assisted living facilities offer more comprehensive personal care services but are not equipped to deal with the more intensive needs of residents in a dedicated nursing home.
The decision to move into a retirement home is highly personal and depends greatly on the individual. Various factors can also affect it, including health status, social needs, and financial considerations. Many seniors choose retirement homes for reasons including the desire to downsize, reduce home maintenance responsibilities, and enjoy a more carefree lifestyle. Others are drawn to the social aspects, looking forward to building new friendships and participating in community activities since they’ve retired from working life.
At Delmanor, we pride ourselves on creating vibrant communities that cater to each resident’s unique needs. Our approach focuses on promoting active aging, fostering connections, and providing a supportive environment for everyone.
Finding the Right Retirement Home For You
To land on the retirement home that’s perfect for your circumstances, it can be helpful to ask some questions about what you’re looking for:
- What types of accommodations are available?
- What services and amenities are included?
- Are there additional costs for certain services?
- What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
- What social and recreational activities are offered?
- How are healthcare needs addressed?
- What is the community’s culture and atmosphere?
Then, once you’ve selected a short list of candidate retirement homes, it can be highly beneficial to make a visit to each. You’ll be living here, after all, so it’s important to get a full sense of the place.
This is the final step in making an informed decision. It allows you to get a feel for the community, meet current residents, and truly envision your life in a new place.
Getting Started
The best retirement homes offer seniors an easy balance between independence and support. They provide an opportunity to simplify life, meet new people, and enjoy a sense of community. As you explore your options, remember that the right retirement home should feel like more than just a place to live—it should feel like home.
About Delmanor Glen Abbey
Discover the convenience of Delmanor Glen Abbey, nestled in the prestigious Glen Abbey neighbourhood just west of Dorval Drive and close to shops and downtown Oakville. We offer two lifestyle options: Independent Living and Supportive Living. Embrace the freedom to live on your terms with our inclusive Independent Living, featuring dining, LivingWell programs, and a variety of amenities. Our well-appointed suites feature kitchenettes equipped with a fridge/freezer and microwaves. In our Supportive Living, you can access a dedicated health and wellness team that assists with personal daily tasks, medication management, daily housekeeping, and laundry service. Experience the Delmanor Difference by booking your tour today.
For more information on our community, please visit delmanorglenabbey.com
