If you are choosing a retirement home in 2024, look no further. Selecting a suitable retirement residence is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as you plan for your future. The perfect retirement residence should not only meet your current needs but also anticipate your future requirements.
Here are some essential tips to help you make an informed decision when selecting a retirement home in 2024.
1. Research Your Options
The first step in finding the right retirement home is thorough research. Here are some common sources that prospective residents should be aware of when researching a retirement residence:
- Word of Mouth: This is a powerful tool, especially in a tight-knit community like Perth. Talk to friends, family, and neighbours to get their opinions and experiences.
- Online Reviews: Check reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Positive feedback from current residents can give you confidence in your choice.
- Social Media: Follow retirement homes on Facebook and other social media platforms to get updates and read comments from residents and their families. Social media is a great way to see the facility and day-to-day life.
- Traditional Media: Newspapers, radio, and even brochures can provide valuable information about local retirement homes.
- Drive-By: Sometimes, seeing a place in person, even from the outside, can give you a feel for the environment. You may even get a chance for a drop-in tour.
2. Consider the Location
The location of the retirement home is crucial. Perth is known for its friendly atmosphere, local shops, and excellent medical access, making it an attractive option for retirees. Ensure the residence is close to essential services like hospitals, shopping centers, and recreational facilities.
3. Evaluate the Facility
When visiting potential retirement homes, pay attention to the following:
- Atmosphere: The general feel of the place is important and can speak to how comfortable you are when you move in and how fast you get settled. Is it welcoming and comfortable?
- Food Quality: Request to have a meal during your tour. Good food can greatly enhance the quality of life and is a crucial aspect of a retirement home.
- State-of-the-Art Amenities: Modern buildings like Lanark Lifestyles offer benefits like advanced air exchange systems, excellent care infrastructure, and state-of-the-art amenities that older facilities might lack.
- Maintenance and Safety: Newer buildings comply with post-COVID building codes, reducing concerns like mould and ongoing maintenance issues.
4. Talk to Current Residents
Speaking with current residents can provide invaluable insights. They can share their personal experiences and give you a better understanding of what daily life is like in the community. This firsthand information is often more reliable than brochures or online descriptions.
5. Review RHRA Reports
The Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority (RHRA) provides reports on retirement homes. These reports can offer important information about the safety and compliance of the facility. Always check these reports as part of your research.
6. Understand the Financials
Financial considerations are paramount. Create a checklist of all potential costs, including:
- Monthly fees
- Additional services and their costs
- Entrance fees or deposits
- Healthcare costs
7. Get on the Waiting List
Popular unit types can have waiting lists. It’s advisable to get your name on the list early to secure your preferred accommodation. It never hurts to plan ahead!
8. Physician Referrals
Ask if your physician has any recommendations. Physicians in Perth, Smiths Falls, and Ottawa hospitals frequently refer seniors to Lanark Lifestyles due to its excellent care facilities and proximity to medical services.
9. Schedule a Tour
Seeing is believing. Schedule a tour of a few retirement homes to experience the community firsthand. During the tour, observe the interactions between staff and residents, the cleanliness of the facility, and the overall environment.
Choosing a retirement home is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and research.
By following these tips, you can make an informed choice that ensures a comfortable and fulfilling retirement.
For more information about Lanark Lifestyles, click here.