Many people assume that retirement communities are built for couples. But you may be surprised to learn that nearly half of Edgewood residents are either widowed, divorced or single-by-choice. If you find yourself in one of these categories, you owe it to yourself to consider your retirement living options and find out how living in a community could help you live a longer, healthier, happier life.
According to Pew Research, almost 19 million Americans over age 60 live alone. This fact has led to volumes of research studying the effects of social isolation and loneliness, both of which are risk factors for conditions such as a weakened immune system, heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease.
But the news is not all bad. Research cited by the National Institute on Aging has also shown that “people who engage in meaningful, productive activities with others tend to live longer, boost their mood, and have a sense of purpose. These activities seem to help maintain their well-being and may improve their cognitive function.”
Discover the not-so-secret benefits of living in a community when you’re on your own:
New friends around every corner. Many people compare moving into a retirement community to moving into a college dorm. You’ll find a diverse group of people who share similar generational experiences and who are always interested in making new friends. Plus, a full calendar of activities and events will help you stay as busy and involved as you want to be while also introducing you to people with similar interests.
All the privacy you want, when you want it. This is where the college dorm comparison ends. With your own private residence, you’ll have all the privacy and alone-time you want, whenever you want it. And, while you’ll never run out of fun and interesting things to do, you’ll never be forced to do anything. You’ll live your life on your own schedule, knowing your autonomy is always respected.
A built-in network of support. At a retirement community, there’s always a helping hand when you need one. Whether it’s a friend to talk to, a nurse to check on you when you’re under the weather (and a chef to send you soup), a maintenance person to change a lightbulb, or a personal trainer to help you stay fit, you’ll have an entire team of people looking out for you.
Financial predictability and peace of mind. LifeCare Communities provide financial predictability and priceless peace of mind in knowing that, as your needs change, you’ll be able to receive the assistance and care you need right on our campus. Your family and friends will never be faced with having to find care or a place in a community during a crisis situation.
Take advantage of a great value. While a one-bedroom apartment home might feel a little too cozy for a couple, people living solo in a retirement community often find that this type of home delivers a lot of bang for the buck. That’s because, even though you may choose a smaller floor plan, you’ll still have full access to everything the community has to offer — from helpful services that make your life easier and more convenient, to an array of amenities that are all included in your monthly fee. Plus, when you consider common spaces such as community living areas and dining venues, game rooms, classrooms, an art studio and gallery, computer lab, library, and even individual resident garden beds, you’ll find that your home is much more than the square footage of your apartment.
A home for your furry friend, too. Research has clearly demonstrated the health benefits of having a pet, and Edgewood welcomes your furry, feathered or finned friends to join you.
There’s so much more to community life than we could describe in this blog. We invite you to discover Edgewood, the Merrimack Valley’s only LifeCare Community, and how our community can add more life to your years.
To learn more and to see available floor plans, please use our contact form or call us at 978-738-6401.
Sources:
“Older people are more likely to live alone in the U.S. than elsewhere in the world.” Pew Research Center, March 10, 2020.
“Social isolation, loneliness in older people pose health risks.” National Institute on Aging, April 23, 2019.