Reasons to Move to a CCRC Earlier

Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) homes offer a great deal of independence for Seniors. However, many adults age 50 and above still want to remain in their homes. There are many reasons that people give as to why they avoid community living. The most common reason is they are not ready yet. Other reasons cited include uncertainty about the effect on their finances, the need to hold on to current belongings, and confusion over the available options. 

There are a lot of reasons that can make a person say they are not ready yet. Sometimes these people may not have adequate information regarding CCRCs. They may have a lot of questions and doubts about the age-restriction in these homes. Some may find it difficult to choose a senior living community that is ideal for them. There is also an age-gap issue where some seniors feel like it is still too early for them to join these communities. 

Age Difference

The difference in age brings about a generation gap where some people joining the communities feel like they do not belong there. Those entering the community in their early 70s may not feel as they are in the same generation with someone in their late 80s. So, avoiding community living may be something baby boomers do due to generational fear differences. The generation gap can be real or just perceived, and this may cause the indifference. 

The two generations that may cause conflict include the “Silent Generation” and the “Baby Boomer Generation.” Members of the silent era were born during the Second World War and the Great Depression between 1925 and 1946.[1] They are considered hard-working, respectful of authority, and have a strong sense of tradition. The events of the war and hardships of the depression may have had a life-changing impact on their formative years.

The baby boomers, on the other hand, were born during the post-war era and are often the children of the Silent Generation.[2] Born between 1946 and 1964, they are considered to have a strong sense of competitiveness, independence, resourcefulness, and at times may question authority. 

Responding to Not Wanting to Move to Senior CCRC

Baby boomers have a different viewpoint from the Silent Generation regarding old age. Old age has always been associated with certain characteristics such as wrinkles, loss of strength, illnesses, poor memory, and the general need for assistance. The baby boomer generation, however, has a youthful view of themselves where they describe themselves as being mentally and physically strong. 

Baby boomers may lack the traditional characteristics of Seniors. They feel more energetic, participate in sports, they have healthier bodies, and they even look young without a lot of wrinkles. This ideological difference creates a rift between these two generations. But this does not necessarily mean that they cannot co-exist peacefully as friends and neighbors. So, their response is based on the fact they do not feel old enough to move to senior CCRCs. 

Who Is a Good Candidate for Continuing Care Retirement Community?

Some people may feel as though they are not “old enough” to join a CCRC or fear that living among older people makes them feel old. “Older people” may also feel the need to be around “younger” people to retain their youthfulness. However, this concept may not be true for everyone joining a CCRC. There are various benefits of joining a CCRC earlier than later. 

1. Involvement

One benefit of joining early is that you will have greater access to a huge array of various programs, amenities, activities, and services available in the CCRC. These benefits are usually provided in the community, but many CCRCs are coming up with ways for residents to interact with their broader community. They can do so via volunteer service projects, intergenerational programs, continuing education classes, and others. You will be able to enjoy these perks fully while younger.

2. Wellness

The main objective of a CCRC is for residents to live healthy and independent lives for as long as possible. The community still provides care services when needed by the residents. Wellness services include fitness and aquatic centers, access to fitness trainers, special diet meal plans, yoga classes, low-impact aerobics, and others. These programs are aimed at developing the mind, body, and soul. 

3. Relationships

Moving to continuing care retirement community early enough gives you ample time to create meaningful relationships. This network of friends can be helpful in terms of offering support and encouragement, especially when you have a health care crisis. If you join later, you may miss the opportunity and time to form or develop any meaningful relationships. 

4. Qualifying Factors

The CCRC contracts require one to be able to live independently when moving into the community. Many communities also conduct a health evaluation for prospective residents during the application process. Those who do not meet the required standards are declined. Joining too late may mean missing out on CCRC benefits. 

5. Smoother Transition

Moving can be a daunting task, both physically and mentally. Moving while younger becomes much easier since you are relatively able-bodied and in good health to handle the stress that comes with it. Moving while older increases your chances of experiencing relocation stress syndrome (RSS) which includes symptoms like confusion, anxiety, and loneliness. 

Solving the Not Ready Yet Dilemma

Many people face the dilemma between the benefits of a CCRC and the challenges of getting stuck in a generation gap. If you join a CCRC earlier, you won’t have this dilemma later on.

A CCRC is more than a place to live. It’s a community where residents can form friendships and live full lives. There is a need for intergenerational living that includes all age groups and generations. More people may choose to join a CCRC where there is a blend of the two generations for mutual benefit. 

Buena Vida Estates is a CCRC that offers an opportunity to enjoy an active and enriching lifestyle. Joining us ensures that you no longer have to worry about the rising cost of health care, financial security, insurance, property taxes, and home maintenance costs. Contact us today to schedule a visit. 

 

References

[1] https://study.com/academy/lesson/the-silent-generation-definition-characteristics-facts.html#:~:text=The%20Silent%20Generation%20refers%20to,be%20seen%20and%20not%20heard

[2] https://elearningindustry.com/8-important-characteristics-baby-boomers-elearning-professionals-know