Finding mental tranquility is challenging at any age, but especially so in old age. Approximately 29% of Americans over the age of 65 live alone, which, according to the Administration on Aging, can be frightening because of concerns about health, security, household management, and other issues. But remember that being alone is not inevitable just because you choose to live alone. There are several factors that can help you achieve peace of mind when you move into retirement communities in Van Buren, AR.
Risk of Retiring Alone
Being isolated from other people is the primary problem for elderlies who live alone. Even the most introverted among us need to engage with others on a regular basis to keep our minds and bodies healthy. A person’s life expectancy can be shortened by the resulting physical and health problems when they are socially isolated. As a result, you are more likely to experience health problems like hypertension, infections, cardiovascular disease, and memory loss.
Another potential drawback of aging alone is an increase in the likelihood of accidental injury. Because of the various potential hazards within the home and the commonality of impaired eyesight among the elderly, many accidents occur within the boundaries of the home itself. The brittleness that comes with aging increases the risk of injury from falls, which is why the elderly who live alone should be especially careful. However little the fall may be, some of them may still need assistance getting up. When you are on your own, it can take hours or even days to get aid, during which time the condition could have deteriorated.
How Retirement Communities Help You Achieve Peace of Mind
As a first step, we must dispel the common misconception that retirement communities are no different from nursing homes. Senior living, in fact, encompasses a spectrum of care that ranges from independent living to assisted living to memory care. Here are the advantages you will reap:
- In a community that provides the entire spectrum of care on one campus, you will receive the ideal amount of care and support to encourage your independence and aid you in managing your health.
- Safety measures such as emergency alert systems, grab bars, ramps, transportation, and generators are typical in these communities because of the high population of elderly residents.
- Housekeeping, laundry, and maintenance, coupled with facilities like swimming pools and gyms, will alleviate your stress.
- Monthly calendars are packed with clubs, classes, events, and outings, as well as lots of common spaces to gather with friends and family.
- With the help of a nutritionist or dietitian and a dining team that is familiar with your dietary restrictions and preferences, eating out with friends can once again be a pleasurable experience.
- In a retirement community, you can expect more stability in terms of when and how much you will be charged. When weighed against the overall expense of living at home (mortgage or rent plus food, utilities, and home upkeep), senior housing may actually be more affordable.
