Retirement Communities are Still a Safe Choice for Seniors

Throughout the COVID-19 crisis, considerable attention has been drawn to long-term care homes where several coronavirus cases and fatalities have occurred. Unfortunately, many still consider long-term care homes the same as independent living communities; however, there are distinct differences between the two. 

Despite public perception and the ongoing global pandemic, retirement communities are still a safe choice for seniors looking to lead a fulfilling, independent and supportive lifestyle. Here’s a look at some benefits offered by retirement communities:

Supportive Staff
Many seniors move into retirement communities to maintain their independence, but to also get help with daily tasks, like housekeeping, laundry and healthy meals. Having access to health care professionals and support staff provides great peace of mind for residents and families, too. In challenging times, like the coronavirus pandemic, living in a supportive community can be very beneficial for seniors, especially when outside care from family is limited. 

Safety Protocols
All retirement communities have stringent infection control protocols in place and these procedures have become more refined as our understanding of COVID-19 has evolved. Screening of residents, staff and visitors is more robust than ever and routine cleaning and disinfection measures often go beyond government directives. Retirement communities also have strict outbreak protocols and are trained to react quickly should any virus begin to spread. Maintaining a clean and disinfected home can be challenging for seniors, but this is taken care of by professional staff in a retirement community.

Social Connections
The cancellation of programs, social distancing and lack of access to technology has exacerbated feelings of isolation for seniors living at home throughout the pandemic. However, when seniors choose to move into an independent living community, their social connections blossom. Residents and staff quickly become part of their daily social circle and there are many opportunities to safely interact. Events and celebrations continue to take place with safety precautions and residents have many opportunities to regularly connect while maintaining social distancing.

Reduced Exposure
Without having to worry about going to the grocery store, taking public transportation to appointments or going to busy places where the risk of community transmission is high, seniors benefit from reduced exposure when living in a retirement community during a pandemic. Many communities provide all the amenities, entertainment, healthy meals and resources that seniors need, so they don’t have to seek these on their own. Whether it’s getting their hair done, enjoying a workout or spending time on hobbies, retirement communities cater to residents by offering numerous in-house amenities and services.

Independent living in a retirement community remains a safe alternative for seniors, even during a pandemic. In fact, moves into retirement homes are on the rise again since many seniors and their families are realizing that the isolation created from living alone isn’t ideal.

If you or someone you love is considering a move into a retirement community, an Accredited Senior Agent (ASA) is a great resource to tap into. To learn more, please contact me, Deborah Clerk, Real Estate Sales Representative and ASA at Keller Williams Realty Associates, Brokerage, in Mississauga, Ontario, to discuss your options.