I just hate the term ‘retirement homes’. It just sounds so final. Like nursing homes, or rest homes etc. I guess the bottom line is that as we get older, we need homes that are more suited to our physical condition. My folks have lived in this wonderful 5 story town house in Rotterdam, Holland for all of their married life. With 7 of us kids all grown up and doing our own thing, they have no need for such a huge place. Also, my dad’s had his hips replaced recently and can no longer get up the stairs. As a consequence, my aging parents have been seriously looking at retirement homes and retirement homes communities, and I have to admit, there seem to be some nice option available.
When the bondage of work has been unshackled from our existence, in other words, we retire, then we are much freer to chose where we live rather than having to live close to our workplace as a matter of convenience. Another benefit is the financial freedom delivered through pension plans, and that fact that most homes are paid for by retirement age and probably have plenty of equity. Today, with the increased population of older folks, there are many options and opportunities for retirement homes, to keep up with the growing demands.
Most cities across the Untied States and Western Europe, offer some type of adult community development. They range in price, services and amenities. Some of the developments offer retirement homes that include membership to an exclusive golf course. The golf course developments are perfect for the avid golfer because if you live in the development there are usually no green fees. This allows for daily golfing. These developments usually offer patio homes that are located throughout the golf course, so the settings are beautiful and quite private.
Another popular option for retirement homes is high rise condominiums. This option works best for people that do not want any yard work. Most adult condominiums offer a variety of activities both on and off site for residents to take part in. The resale values of the condominiums are good so this is a sound investment. The condominium options are very popular so they are available in most areas. For people that want to have multiple retirement homes the condominium is a great option because they are secure and maintenance free. Some people will rent out their condominiums when they are not living in them, to help defray the cost. It is important to check with the condominium association to make sure this is allowed.
Many people choose one level floor plans in their retirement homes so they are accessible to walkers, canes and wheel chairs. It is this type that my parents are looking at. In fact they are going to be making so much money out of the family home they are even thinking about the retirement homes Florida has to offer as a second home, or holiday home for themselves and the family.
Even if the person is not using a walking aid themselves’, it is likely that their friends may need the accessibility. Some people will be thinking of retirement homes as they travel for business or pleasure in preparation for retirement years. This is important especially if you are thinking of relocating to a different county for retirement. It’s always a good idea to spend time in the new location prior to buying so that you are certain that the area is a good choice for you.
The last thing anyone wants to do is to purchase a retirement home in an area that they have not spent time in, because they will not know if the amenities fit their needs, or if the weather patterns are what they’re looking for. It’s wise to spend time talking to others that live in the community they are planning on joining. It is also important to know if outsiders are welcomed and that people are accepting of them.
As with any major decision the more homework and research you do the better the chance that you will make a sound decision. Retirement homes are a large investment and it is important to consider as many factors as possible prior to purchasing one.
My parents are pretty switched on folks despite their physical state slowing them down in recent years, and they seem to have a pretty good idea on where they want to live and how much they want to invest. However, the final decision will only be made after family discussions, and I’m sure they will base their choice of location and dwelling based on what we all think as a family
Retirement homes – Making the choice!
