Why Location Matters When Picking a Senior Living Community

When you move to a senior living community, where you choose to live is as important as which community you choose. Is the climate right for you?  Is it close to family? Can you afford the fees? When it comes to choosing a senior living community, location can be a key indicator for determining your happiness in the future. It makes sense because if you love the location of your senior community, it can truly heighten your experience and help you adjust with even greater ease. 

But how do you choose the right spot? There’s much to consider, and you want to make sure you’ll have all the resources you need to feel most at home. Will you be moving to a warmer climate? Would you like to be closer to your grandchildren? If you are a senior couple moving together, the collaboration will greatly matter when trying to find a place both of you will enjoy.

Tips for Choosing the Right Location

There’s no one-size-fits-all senior living community, and everyone’s needs are different. However, here are some things to consider before choosing a location to settle down in for the future:

1. Price: As nice as it would be to settle down on your own private beachside villa, your budget may not be able to accommodate such luxuries. You must be realistic when looking at different locations and communities and budget your money in a smart manner. Look for communities that will be able to make the most of your budget while being in a location that you find appealing. If you’re curious about the cost of living at The Ridge Pinehurst in Denver, for instance, you might have a look at our cost comparison calculator to compare the cost against your current living expenses.

2. The Proximity of Your Family: Another important factor is how close your family is and how willing you are to travel to see your loved ones. Many seniors choose communities not too far from their loved ones; however, if travel doesn’t bother you, moving further away is a viable option. If you’re looking to spend more time with your kids and grandkids, look for senior living communities in your family’s area. There are a number of reasons why living close to family is important for retirees, not least of which are the positive effects it has on your physical health and emotional well-being. 

3. Which Location Has the Resources You Need: Not all senior living communities are the same, and many specialize in different areas, like skilled nursing, rehabilitation services or memory care. You should look at the communities that have the resources most important to you and will provide peace of mind for your future. If you are not comfortable in your community, it doesn’t matter where the location is, and location should only come second to whether or not your community has the proper amenities and resources for you. For example, The Ridge Senior Living’s three communities are located in two of the best states to retire in, according to U.S. News & World Report. Colorado and Utah ranked well in three of the same categories: Physical Activity, Medicare Quality, and Life Expectancy.

4. How Many Communities Are Nearby to Choose From: Depending on the area you’re looking at, there may be a variety of senior living communities available. For example, if you would like to live in a more rural location, your senior living choices might be limited. Keep this in mind when you are deciding on a place to live.

5. Get to Know the Surrounding Area: As important as it is to enjoy the atmosphere of your senior living community, you should also make sure you enjoy the amenities in the greater area. Explore what the local community has to offer that suits your interests, whether that’s nature, fine dining, shopping, sports or other attractions. In Salt Lake City, for instance, home of The Ridge Cottonwood, there’s a host of family-friendly activities and attractions to enjoy.  The same is true near Denver, where The Ridge Pinehurst is located, as well as offering some of the best hiking trails in the country. 

The Ridge Senior Living family of communities — The Ridge Foothill; The Ridge Cottonwood near Salt Lake City; and our new Denver community, The Ridge Pinehurst — are leaders in the field of independent senior living in some of the most desirable retirement locations anywhere. Find out more by contacting us here or by calling 801-261-3153.