When is it Time to Consider a Retirement Home?

At some point, you may find that your mobility becomes too problematic to justify staying in your own home. Most people are understandably reluctant to move into a retirement home and sacrifice their independence, even if the situation calls for this. It is a huge decision to make, both for yourself and the people around you.

The Right Time to Move to a Retirement Home

There are no hard and fast rules about when to move to a retirement home, but most people choose not to do so until they can no longer manage in their own home. This may be the result of mobility problems or health problems such as dementia may leave you or your family feeling that there is no other option.

Which Type of Retirement Home?

There are several options when moving into retirement accommodation, including:

Sheltered accommodation

This is a good option if you are not going to need constant care and supervision as this allows you to live in a flat (or similar accommodation) that is located within a housing complex, but with the option of requesting help from an on-site residential warden if need be. Because of this, this type of retirement accommodation usually houses those who have made the decision to move into it (rather than being forced to by circumstances).

Residential care homes

This is the better option if you are going to need looking after and have less independence and mobility. In most cases, you will have your own room within the care home along with access to the communal areas such as the dining room and recreation areas. Moving to a residential care home gives you the peace of mind that there will be someone on hand on a 24-7 basis if needed, which is crucial if you are suffering from problems that make it difficult to get around or do things unaided. For this type of retirement accommodation, the decision to become a resident will usually be made for you due to being unable to cope in your home.

What To Expect From a Retirement Home

Retirement homes are often viewed in a negative fashion, but this may be the only feasible option if you are struggling to do things for yourself. It is likely that moving into a retirement home will be the result of this, and this can make it a difficult transition for many people. Having to give up your independence can be a huge blow, even if you were struggling to get around the home. This is not so true of sheltered retirement accommodation, as this better suits those who still have good mobility and can look after themselves for the most part.

Other Considerations

Cost may also be a factor when choosing the right time to move to a retirement home. It can be very expensive to secure retirement accommodation. You may be eligible for state support, but this will probably not be the case if you have any savings in the bank or own a home as it is likely that you will be asked to use these or sell your home to fund the costs.

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