Exploring the Amenities and Services Offered in Retirement Communities

Many older adults move into retirement communities because they offer a maintenance-free lifestyle. Some communities also include onsite medical care.

Explore the facilities and amenities in a community to find one that is right for you. The best independent living communities feature spaces for artistic recreation and craftsmanship.

Fitness Centers

Many retirement communities offer onsite fitness centers, group exercise classes, and perks. Some even have onsite beauty/barber shops and shopping to help reduce outside trips, freeing up time for other activities.

With maintenance-free living, you can spend more time pursuing hobbies, volunteering, traveling, or taking art classes. You can also rediscover old interests or explore new ones. Errands are easier to handle, too.

Clubhouses

In addition to spacious private apartments and resort-style amenities, some Your Home Wichita retirement communities include clubhouses. These community hubs are the central point of member life and help them feel like a true community.

Studies with varying evidence suggest accredited clubhouses increase employment duration, quality of life, and social relationships. They also reduce hospitalizations and emergency mental health encounters.

Gardening Spaces

Community gardens are more than just a place to put your green thumb to work; they’re also great for improving and maintaining physical health. The bending, lifting, raking, and walking movements involved with gardening help strengthen muscles and improve/maintain fine motor skills.

To encourage participation, look for a retirement community with onsite garden space, hobby clubs, and other events. It’s a sign that the community cares about its residents.

Library

Today’s retirees want options when it comes to their lifestyle. Many independent living communities offer services that help ease everyday burdens, from housekeeping and laundry to personal concierge or shuttle transportation for doctor visits or shopping trips.

Full-service retirement communities (CCRCs) provide multiple levels of care on one campus so seniors can shift between independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing without moving.

Internet Cafes

Internet cafes (sometimes called cybercafes) are places where you can access the Internet for a fee. They look like glorified coffee shops and usually offer food and drinks for sale.

They’re now a vital way to connect with the world.

Social Activities

Whether you’re an expert bridge player or a terrible singer who loves karaoke, retirement community activities help residents express their creativity and enjoy fun experiences with their peers.

Some communities also host guest professionals who teach cooking classes, host comedy nights, or perform concerts. It allows long-term residents to have new hobbies and boosts their self-esteem.

Transportation

Independent living communities are usually restricted to people over a certain age (55 or 62). These typically offer housing units like apartments/condos and townhouses, onsite amenities, and social activities.

Many senior communities have shuttle services that offer scheduled rides to local destinations. It helps seniors feel more independent and keeps them connected to the joys of life.

Pet Care

Many seniors worry about their pet’s future after moving to a retirement apartment. One solution is a pet retirement home, like TigerPlace, which collaborates with a veterinary college.

These facilities can usually accommodate pets who have been with the owner their entire life. They also offer regular visits from animals to boost mental stimulation. It can help reduce depression and lower the risk of dementia.

Dining Rooms

Many retirement communities have taken a page from the cruise ship playbook and now offer multiple dining options. Whether it’s a meal in the dining room, coffee shop, or bar, this provides unprecedented optionality for residents.

Be sure to inquire about flexibility in the timing of meals and whether residents can order from a special menu. It is significant for seniors with unique eating habits and diets.

Housekeeping

Housekeeping services help seniors get the most out of their retirement community experience. They can spend more time pursuing their favorite hobbies, traveling, or connecting with friends.

Plus, multiple bills are replaced with one monthly payment. A full-time staff handles lawn care and household maintenance. Often, these communities are gated for safety and employ security teams. They’re also typically in areas that offer low crime rates.