Although most older adults know at least one person residing in a senior community, there are often misconceptions about what living there is like. Senior Resource Group, which operates residences in five states, shares some common myths about senior living communities:
MYTH: Retirement communities are expensive.
When compared to the monthly expenses and upkeep of a house, many older adults have found they actually spend less per month and gain additional benefits by moving to a retirement community. A “Compare the Value” worksheet is available in the resources section of srgseniorliving.com.
MYTH: Residents are frail and in poor health.
People often equate age with fragility, and nothing could be further from the truth. Residents at retirement communities across the country are redefining stereotypes and proving that age is nothing more than a number. For example, take Marjorie Skinner, a 105-year-old resident at La Vida Real in Rancho San Diego. She walks daily and believes that exercise is the key to longevity—a testament to being young at heart.
MYTH: You can’t come and go as you please.
Senior living communities offer a “lock and leave” lifestyle. Residents can simply lock their front door and know their residence will be taken care of should they leave for a day or a few weeks. There’s no need to worry about the accumulation of newspapers on the front lawn—a surefire signal to burglars that you’re away—or ask a neighbor to check your mail.
MYTH: They serve “hospital food.”
When was the last time you enjoyed a salmon fillet that was grilled to order and finished with a drizzle of pesto, or herb-crusted lamb chops with an onion mint marmalade? At La Vida Real, this is a typical dinner choice for residents. The on-site restaurant is renowned for its extensive fine dining menu and is open 12 hours daily, seven days a week, for mealtime flexibility.
Debunking Retirement Community Myths
