Moving from a home to a
retirement home can be a difficult decision, especially for an independent individual
but there are steps that you can take to help with making the right choice.
First, it is important to
consider the location. It might be easier to choose a retirement home close to
where your home is, so that it still feels familiar. The children and grandchildren
will want to come and visit so it will make it easier for them if the
retirement home is next to a main road and offers accommodation nearby for
those travelling long distances. Most of the homes offer weekly outings to the
nearest shopping centres; it would be nice to still be able to go to your
favourite coffee shop or shop, even if you have moved out of your residence.
Safety is another key aspect and
you need to make sure that you feel safe inside your apartment but also outside
and that you would still like to go out for walks in the garden or to the
nearest shop. If the retirement home doesn’t offer transportation, check if
there are other ways for you to get into town. Is there a shuttle service you
can use? What if you want to go and visit friends?
Another consideration is the
people working at the retirement facility. Are you comfortable with them? The
staff working at a retirement home will be caring and qualified but you still
need to feel secure and happy. The size of the facility is also a key factor.
Would you like to live with a big community around you or are you most
comfortable in more intimate surroundings? Being in a new environment can be
daunting, but it is also the opportunity to get to know new faces.
There should ideally be a variety
of activities offered so that you will be able to enjoy an activity that
interests you. Hopefully you will find your favourite hobby but at the same
time you might discover new interests.
It is important to still lead an active life after moving out of your
home and sharing a hobby with other residents is another opportunity to
socialise and create a network of support and friends.
Finally, the retirement home
needs to be within your budget. Make sure that you can afford the fees, but
also medical bills, clothing, entertainment, etc. You can always get a member
of your family to help with budgeting and to make sure that there are no hidden
costs.
South Africa offers a wide range
of retirement homes and villages, such as the ones managed by the Pembury
Lifestyle group. Visit their website or email info@pembury.co.za for more
information.
