What is Senior Living? how is it different from Old Age home?

You may not feel it from outside, however, as the body is ageing with each passing birthday, there comes a stage in your life where you just want to enjoy the rest of your livelihood without burdening others or feeling a sense of dependancy that didn’t exist before. Living independently and still having all that you need for daily living is what a senior living community offers. You can live without worrying about ordinary day-to-day issues such as cleaning, cooking, laundry and other errands. Senior Living homes also called as Retirement homes are gaining popularity in India as reported in an article published in Live Mint – more and more Indians are considering staying in senior living societies after retirement. 

Are Senior Living homes similar to old-age homes?

Senior Living homes are not to be mistaken for Old-age homes. The facilities, amenities, environment and services at a senior living community is much superior compared to an old-age home.  It offers a non-intrusive independent lifestyle in a safe environment with a choice to socialise and participate in activities that you prefer. 

Senior Living in the Indian scenario:

Joint families were the traditional way of living in India till the previous generation, especially for elderly people. In today’s modern times with more number of nuclear families, especially in large metros and tier-1 cosmopolitan cities, children seem to move on and settle in other cities or countries with the prospects of better career opportunities thereby leaving parents or elders in their family to live on their own in their old-age with dependancy on domestic help or a cook. Shifting to a senior living community for them could just be the right choice in such a situation. Senior Living communities provide the much needed respite and support system for elderly individuals and couples to live in harmony and keep themselves healthy and socially active.

What is the concept of Independent Living for seniors?

Senior Living communities are housing societies designed for older adults, usually above the age of 55. The options vary largely from independent homes to a flat in an apartment or even a twin sharing accommodation if you’re alone. You get a place with many amenities, activities, services and freedom from maintenance. You may attend religious discourses or practice yoga and meditation, spend time at the club house, go for a swim, play games or engage in your favourite sport and much more. The community environs provide an opportunity to connect with peers and enjoy daily meals while your laundry, housekeeping and grooming requirements are taken care.

When is it appropriate to consider a Senior Living option?

Senior Living homes are for older adults who need little or no assistance to perform their daily activities. Medical or nursing care will be offered only on request in most of the senior living facilities. The decision to shift to a senior living community must be a well thought one with some serious planning and due-diligence. As you approach your retirement age and prefer to stay independently, you may start looking for a suitable property as it is easier to make the transition when you’re still active. As age progresses and if you have serious medical conditions, you may need an Assisted Living home, which is different from a Senior Living community. Enjoy your activities, make new friends and start your life all over again with a new chapter at your preferred senior living home.

How do you know when it is right for you to move into a Senior Living home?

Old age is a time for adaptation and change. Initially any change in your place of stay may seem like you are loosing some of your independence. It’s about making your life easier and simpler. Take time to get over the past and prepare yourself for the new beginning. Moving to an independent senior living community can open up new avenues that you wouldn’t have thought of. It’s the time when you are physically fit and healthy with little or no medical complication and are approaching your retirement age that you must consider moving into a Senior Living home and discuss with your family and friends.

ALH-WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

We’re with you during the transition:

We will evaluate all aspects depending on your current situation, location, preferences, interest and budget and help you choose the right home as well as be with you during the transition from your present home to a senior living home of your choice.