Senior Independent Living: Change Is Never Easy Part II

Among the myriad of housing choices available for seniors, Independent Living offers today's seniors the most versatile options. As was discussed in last week's post, maintaining a home is a source of pride but as we age, those familiar surrounding may begin to feel more like a burden. For many of us, coming to the realization that we should begin looking at housing alternatives to our current situation is the first - and often most difficult - step.

Where Do I Start?

Before Dorothy embarked on her journey down the yellow brick road she received sage advice from Glinda;  it is always best to start at the beginning.

Today's seniors have the advantage of a wide variety of resources to draw from. Boomers grew up during the period of time when new technologies were becoming reality on an almost daily basis. These seniors are more apt to turn to the Internet for information. Regardless of whether or not you access the 'net, grabbing a handful of brochures should not be your first step. Like everything else in life, printed media has its place in helping disseminate information but for making an informed decision, nothing can replace a face-to-face meeting.

Life In Ten Words Or Less?

A discovery interview for all levels of senior living will involve filling out a form or two but that is only part of the process. Like any good relationship, sharing information about who you are is the first step in the getting acquainted process. Information sharing enables the staff at Central Wisconsin Senior Living to assess your likes and dislikes, narrowing down your housing options until you have a customized plan tailored just for you.

Pioneer Place has 19 different floor plans and over 30 apartments, furnished and unfurnished, making it possible for you to find a living arrangement that fits your needs. Also available is the option of Whitetail Run. Both communities offer safe, secure environments for today's active seniors. The deciding factor won't be found in a side-by-side brochure comparison but will be made following several meetings with Central Wisconsin Senior Living staff and apartment tours. Scheduling an appointment for a tour and individualized amenity plan meeting should be your first step.

What Should I Look For?

There are several Independent Living Checklists available online including one that you can access by clicking on this link. They are all similar in nature, varying slightly but all cover the same topics you should be looking at when considering Independent Living: location, your prospective home, community, dining, service & programs, and staff. 

While a checklist will help you keep track of the amenities that are offered, it is also helpful to talk to residents to get their feedback. You don't except your new living arrangements to be one-dimensional; this is not the time for 'one-size-fits-all' or expecting a round peg to be forced into a square hole. Finding a community that offers the amenities that are important to you, in a place you will feel proud to entertain your family and friends is important.

It's been said the light is what guides you home, but it is the warmth that keeps you there.