Typical Retirement Communities in the US
When you see a commercial for a retirement community, it looks like paradise. Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves. Sometimes those commercials can be so convincing that one wonders why they did not want to join a retirement community sooner. Juxtapose that with the media’s portrayal of retirement homes, where they are shown as just not a fun place to be. But is that what a typical retirement community in the United States is like?
A typical retirement community is neither paradise nor is it a horrible place to live. You can generally expect a retirement home to be comfortable with a slow paced lifestyle. Where many residents are unable to do too much, this is ideal. A recreational room is available for more active residents. One can play games or simply socialize there. There are often outings and activities planned for more active residents. Sometimes volunteers will come in and put on concerts and events in the retirement home so that even the less active residents can particate.
Typically, retirement homes have options available for fully assisted living to semi independent living. Fully assisted living is for those who will need help for everything from using the rest room to eating dinner. Generally, these people entered the retirement community earlier, as this level of care can be taxing on a loved one caring for them.
The semi assisted can usually do things for themselves by way of normal, everyday functions. They do not want or need assistance when going to the rest room. They may need assistance or at least the assurance of someone near by when taking a shower, though. Their medications will also be overseen so that they do not miss anything nor do they overdose. Also, they will not be responsible for cooking their own meals but will have their meals cooked for them.
Semi independent residents may have something akin to their own apartment. Depending on their state of health, they may have a kitchenette, a private bathroom and bedroom. They are part of the community to ease their minds and the minds of their family members just in case they did need extra assistance or in case something does go wrong.
This is what a typical retirement community in the US will look like, but you can also expect a lot of variation. Some homes may be strongly geared towards the semi independent residents will lots of options of outings and events. Other retirement communities will be for those needing a lot of hands on assistance and will not be appropriate options for those who are still able to live semi independently. Just remember that not all retirement communities will be the same.
