What to Look for in a Retirement Home Community

Retirement means something different for everyone. From volunteering to learning a new hobby, what you decide to fill your new found spare time with, depends on your aspirations. And for that matter, where you choose to live will make it easier to pursue your new and old interests. A retirement community is a great way to have everything included in one place, so that you don't have to think about certain elements of your daily life. Depending on your desires and your retirement budget, you will find the right home that fits your personality and lifestyle.

Budget

The determining factor for any location must begin with the amount of money you have set aside for your retirement. In doing this you most likely have a monthly number that you would like to spend on housing, food, and recreation. For example, when considering retirement homes in AZ, your choices will be narrowed down by not only the price of a facility, but what is included in that price. You may have a budget for each individual item, but some facilities combine housing, food and recreation that allows you to save money and not worry about excessive bills. When looking into facilities see what is included and the monthly fees. Depending on the community, the amount you are able to pay will determine the size of your space and available services. When you get to the point that you begin to compare facilities, base the price comparison on what is included.

Services

As mentioned, different retirement communities offer different services. Whether you are hoping for an ease of life with everything in one place or would prefer more of a gathering of folks your age without all the frills, there are retirement homes that will fit your exact needs. If you prefer and can afford them, some communities offer an abundance of amenities from in-home hair care, recreational outings, and the like. These obviously have additionally fees associated with them, plan carefully to ensure that you can afford it. Make sure you look at the big picture, as you don't want to come up short on money down the line.

Location

Often the thought of facing another snow or enduring extreme heat can bring a lot of angst into your daily life. Choosing a location is one of the most important elements of choosing a home. You'll need to decide if you want to remain close or move in proximity of your family or if you prefer some space. The weather of course is another deciding factor, many people want to experience the four seasons, while others desire just to bask in the sun. Additionally, you'll need to think about the cost of living and your lifestyle as well. For example, a larger city will bring you closer to an abundance of activities, but will increase the cost of living. Research the top retirement locations to get ideas you may not have thought of before. U.S News Report compiles a yearly list of locations based on certain genres, like military retirees and the best bargains that may help you to decide. The library is a great resource for these items, including travel brochures that may get your creative juices flowing. Think about what matters to you and what you can afford to narrow down your options. In the end, your list should have about three or four potential locations that you should go and visit to get a first-hand experience of what to expect. It may look nice on paper, but once there you may find the air too humid or the city too busy. To get a full sense, visit the local diner, read their paper, go to church or other religious facility or even take up a round of golf; experience what you intend to spend your retirement doing in order to see if you enjoy doing it in that region. Whatever area feels the most like home is the area that you should choose.

Visit

Once you have the location, narrow down your shortlisted communities by visiting each in that region. One of the most important things is to meet the staff, who you will encounter every day in the community. Keep in mind that you are attempting to gauge what your daily experience will be in a facility, so ask all of the questions that you may have and make sure you get a sense of community. Don't settle for something that makes you uncomfortable because it is lower in price. This is where you will be spending your leisurely years, and it's imperative that you feel at home here.

About the Author: Thomas M. Bird is a contributing author who spends his retirement years in Phoenix, Arizona with his lovely wife.