Embracing a change in lifestyle and relocating to a retirement community can be an exciting journey, offering a world of new possibilities and experiences. While there is no “right time” to move into a retirement community, there are significant benefits to moving to a supportive community before the snow arrives and even throughout the colder months. Oftentimes, seniors simply need a safe and inviting place to stay throughout the winter months, and they return back to their homes when the weather is more favourable. Let’s explore the benefits to moving to a retirement living community during the winter months, whether it’s for the long term or for a short “stay-cation”.
1. Simplify Home Upkeep
Home maintenance during winter can be challenging for seniors, potentially leading to health complications. Winterizing the home, shoveling snow, checking for frozen pipes, and cleaning up snow and dirt can be physically demanding tasks. By moving to a retirement community, your loved one can leave these responsibilities to a dedicated team, ensuring a safer and healthier winter season.
2. Stay Active and Socially Engaged
Living alone during winter can be dreary and isolating, which can lead to boredom and even depression. Retirement communities provide ample opportunities for entertainment, including outings to local restaurants, theaters, museums, and other attractions. Socialization is encouraged, with book clubs, discussion events, fitness classes, and holiday-themed parties. Your loved one can continue making treasured memories with neighbors and build new friendships.
Related: 5 Benefits of Social Connection for Older Adults
3. Enjoy Convenient Amenities and Services
Winter brings shorter days and unsafe travel conditions, making the simplest of errands a hassle. Moving into a retirement community offers on-site amenities and services such as salon and barbering, massage therapy, foot care, and family doctor appointments. Your loved one can enjoy the convenience of having everything they need right at their doorstep, without worrying about travel through adverse weather conditions.
4. Stay Safe and Avoid Wintery Roads
One of the biggest reasons to consider retirement living before winter is the avoidance of slippery conditions. Freezing rain and snow can make driving even the shortest distances quite difficult, especially for older adults. By moving to a retirement community, older adults can avoid the need to venture out alone on treacherous roads. Everything they need for a happy and thriving retirement, like tasty meals, social and recreational activities, fun programs, and wellness services, can be found on-site.
5. Enjoy Well-Maintained, Senior Friendly Walkways
Winter can often present an increased occurrence of slips and falls, especially on icy surfaces. Dressing warmly and wearing appropriate footwear is certainly helpful. However, even a short walk to the mailbox can be concerning when walkways aren’t maintained after a heavy snowfall. Retirement communities are designed with senior safety in mind, offering well-maintained walkways. By moving before winter, your loved one can minimize the chances of injury and ensure a safe environment.
Related: Home Safety Tips for Seniors During Winter
6. Improve Wellness and Reduce the Risk of Illness
The cold weather increases the risk of catching the flu, COVID-19 and other viruses, and seniors are particularly vulnerable during winter. Retirement communities provide a supportive environment where wise choices for health can be made. Residents can benefit from reduced exposure to illness and receive timely medical care if needed. You can help safeguard your loved one’s health during flu season by encouraging a move to retirement community this winter.
Now is a great time to consider the incredible benefits of moving to a retirement community and make this winter a season of comfort and happiness for your aging loved one. To learn more about the Sifton Retirement Lifestyle and the services we offer reach out to a Sifton retirement community near you. Whether you’re looking for a short-term stay, or a suite for your senior loved one to call home, we can help as you navigate the winter. We’re here to answer any questions you may have and provide personalized assistance in making the best decision for your loved one.