The concept of senior living communities is somewhat familiar to all of us. In movies and television, we often see retirement communities depicted in a simplistic way. Many people’s perception of senior living is colored by these kinds of isolated experiences. References are often outdated or the scope is too narrow to fully define the idea of “senior living.”
Senior living communities have become increasingly innovative in recent years, offering older adults greater freedom, amenities, socialization and above all, choice. At The Oaks at Bartlett, residents enjoy these benefits and more in a progressive retirement culture right in the heart of Bartlett, IL.
Below, we have debunked five common myths about senior living.
I’ll be overwhelmed by downsizing.
The transition from your home to a retirement community can be challenging. Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Moving to a community like The Oaks at Bartlett means you’ll be connected with Honoring Aging, experts in senior moving and downsizing.
Once you’ve made the deposit on your senior apartment, Honoring Aging’s certified Senior Move Managers® and move-in coordinators will discuss any customizations you plan to make to your new living space. They’ll also answer any questions you have about the moving process itself.
I’ll lose my independence.
Most seniors fear the loss of their independence. But the truth is the sooner you move, the more time you’ll have to enjoy your independence in style.
The point of independent living at The Oaks at Bartlett is to preserve your independence while multiplying your choice of fun things to do. From services and amenities to lifestyle perks at every level of care, the priority is your sustained independence.
It’ll be too expensive.
At a Life Plan Community like The Oaks at Bartlett, you move in while still independent and pay a one-time entrance fee plus monthly fees. While this might seem like an extravagance you can’t afford for services you won’t need, it’s critical to have a plan for the future. In exchange for your fees, the community provides a vibrant independent lifestyle AND priority access to on-site care at a prearranged discounted rate if you ever need it.
In contrast, stand-alone senior living options offer no assurance of care when you need it, so you may need to move somewhere else in a hurry. You’ll have to pay full market rates if care is available, which can be financially overwhelming. When you compare stand-alone senior living options to Life Plan Communities, you’ll see Life Plan Communities present a secure plan that removes worry for you and your whole family.
Senior living is just another type of nursing home.
Contrary to what some people think, the senior living communities of today stand in stark contrast to the nursing homes of the past.
If you need personal support or senior care, you’ll certainly find that at a senior living community like The Oaks at Bartlett, but the truth is that many seniors move to independent living because they want daily opportunities for recreation and social interaction, like a full activities calendar where you can meet new friends while learning or pursuing an exciting new sport or hobby. Or kick back in our common areas while sipping something delicious after a long day of relaxation.
When you transition into independent living, you’re freed from chores and responsibilities like:
- Housekeeping
- Indoor and outdoor maintenance
- Landscaping and lawn care
- Meal preparation (if you so choose)
I’ll be isolated, bored and alone.
Most seniors don’t get the level of socialization they need. When compared to aging in place, living in a community offers a far more robust social calendar. Learning new skills, pursuing new interests, volunteering – these are just a few of the many engaging opportunities available to you as a resident of The Oaks at Bartlett. We offer a packed activities calendar, opportunities to grow your social circle, and numerous leisure options, such as:
- Restaurant-style dining room
- Indoor swimming pool
- Fully equipped fitness center
- Computer lab
- Arts and crafts studio
- Chapel for services of all kinds
- Library
- Game room
- Beauty salon
- Mini mart
We hope the debunking of these common senior living myths has inspired you to look into The Oaks at Bartlett, where there are good people and a real community. And, as a Life Plan Community, we offer independent living and a full continuum of care. This includes assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation and respite care.
Learn more about our senior living community today, or attend one of our upcoming events to get to know us better.