5 Benefits Of Retirement Communities

Posted on: 10 December 2015

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The decision to move into a retirement community is sometimes a difficult one. Giving up independent living in your own home may be something you've wanted to avoid if at all possible. When making such an important decision, it's a good idea to remember that there are many benefits to moving into a retirement community that may make it the best option for you. Here are five benefits of retirement communities to keep in mind:

Make New Friends

According to surveys, 43% of the elderly report feeling lonely on a regular basis. One of the best things about retirement communities is that they offer built-in opportunities to socialize and develop bonds with new friends. Your retirement community will offer you a sense of connection and belonging, while still allowing you to have adequate alone time.

Participate in Fun Activities

Retirement communities are known for their fun activities, and these offerings are expanded all the time. Whether you want to learn to paint, take a ballroom dance class, or dress up for a fun themed dinner night, you will never face a shortage of fun things to do when you live in a retirement community.

Peace of Mind

Both you and your family may experience increased peace of mind after you move into a retirement community. Retirement communities offer a very secure and safe living environment, where your basic needs will be attended to. This can alleviate your own stress, and also help worried family members relax.

Fewer Tasks and Chores

After a lifetime of cleaning, doing yard work, and generally spending a great deal of time tackling chores and other tasks, being in a retirement community can feel like a long, awaited-for break. In the retirement community, all of the mundane tasks are taken care of for you, leaving you more time to enjoy your hobbies, chat with friends and family, or simply relax with a book or your favorite TV show.   

Possible Tax Breaks

If your retirement community offers healthcare and nursing, like many retirement communities do, you may be eligible for generous tax breaks. These tax breaks are designed to help offset the entrance fees as well as the monthly residential costs associated with moving into a retirement home. It's a good idea to give your accountant a call to see if these tax breaks may be applicable to your specific situation.

It's always a good idea to schedule a time to tour the retirement community you are considering, in order to get a better idea of whether or not this is the best choice for you.