Finding the Right Senior Living Community for You

group enjoying their senior living community
The Admiral at the Lake- residents. Photo by Megan Bearder.

There’s an abundance of choices when it comes to senior living in Chicago, in fact, looking at the sheer number of options can be dizzying. But all of these options can be a mixed bag when it comes to finding the perfect home for your retirement. Here are a few things to keep in mind to help find the right senior living community for you:

1. Find a community that suits your lifestyle

You can retire in a community designed specifically for your lifestyle and interests, whatever they may be. Everything from active older adult communities focused on outdoor recreation to independent living senior communities that aim to enhance wellbeing and social engagement is available to today’s older adults and seniors.

Housing options vary widely, too, from efficiency apartments and luxury condo-like residences in the city to private, free-standing homes in landscaped, suburban developments. Many offer residents extensive events and amenities like classes, club rooms, day trips, pools, or golf courses.

2. Make practical decisions for you and your loved ones 

There’s a wide range of services available in senior living communities and, for this reason, costs can vary widely. While most communities have some level of service available for residents with transportation, dining, and housecleaning being the most common, some independent senior communities don’t include any services. Suburban communities that feature single family homes or townhomes usually include maintenance and lawn care services. Many communities have in-house salons or spas just for residents.

3. Plan for the future

As you explore the multitude of offerings in senior communities, don’t forget about your health. Many senior communities focus on wellness and have amenities to support healthy lifestyles. But beyond the present, the possibility that you might need care in later life is something you should consider. As with other aspects of senior communities, options and associated costs differ widely across different types of facilities. While some offer no healthcare options, others have around-the-clock healthcare staff, allowing residents to seamlessly transition from fully independent senior living to assisted living with ease.

At the same time, many assisted living communities don’t offer long-term skilled nursing care. Life care communities like The Admiral at the Lake offer options from assisted living to skilled care and memory care within active senior communities. Whatever you choose, planning ahead as you choose a senior community can help you retain control of your retirement should become less independent.

There is a lot to consider when choosing a senior community for your retirement. The most important consideration, of course, is what you need or want in terms of services to make your retirement safe, easy, convenient and enjoyable.

Need more information about planning for an elevated senior living and retirement experience? Contact The Admiral at the Lake at 773-433-1801 or schedule a remote, virtual (or in-person) tour below!

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See why The Admiral at the Lake’s active senior living community overlooking Lake Michigan is the right choice for you.