Rethinking Aging in Place: The Value of Community
A recent Forbes article, “Why Aging in Place May Not Be the Answer for Your Retirement,” by Jann E. Freed raises a question that many older adults are asking: Where should I spend my golden years? The answer to this will be different for everyone, but many older adults have the assumption that staying in their longtime homes is the best way to maintain physical independence, and this is not always the case.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), especially the not-for-profits, are specifically designed to help older adults age well: promoting independence while also providing essential support when needed. At Newbury Court, we see how thoughtfully designing a CCRC makes a difference. From walkable spaces and accessible living arrangements to built-in social connections and on-site healthcare, every element is planned to support residents’ wellbeing. Freed’s article highlights how isolation can become a challenge with age, and CCRCs are designed to mitigate this by offering extensive, engaging programing, opportunities for continued learning, and an active lifestyle. CCRCs also enable couples with varying levels of independence to care for each other without the added stress of cooking, cleaning, or home maintenance.
Another key point Freed makes is the importance of planning ahead. Many CCRCs have waitlists, and making a decision before a crisis allows for more choice and control. This doesn’t mean a move is right for everyone, but it’s worth considering what kind of environment will best support a great quality of life. Keeping an open mind to all options—including community living—can make all the difference.