Baby boomers, stressed by senior living? You’re not alone, but here’s why you might want to reconsider.

Moving into a senior living community can seem intimidating, but the benefits are undeniable. Imagine living among your peers and enjoying on-site amenities like recreation and dining, without the hassle of maintenance or travel.

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According to a recent Age of Majority ReportEssential stores and restaurants are at the top of the priority list for active seniors. In fact, 71% of baby boomers say food is a “very important” factor when choosing where to live, according to one study. Restaura Hospitality Group Survey.

Today’s senior living communities often offer diverse, high-quality dining experiences. So, before you dismiss this idea, consider the bigger picture: The benefits senior living communities have to offer might surprise you.

Looking Beyond Food

While food is naturally a key factor when choosing a senior living community, it’s important to recognize the benefits of moving in, even if the dining choices seem limited at first glance.

One of the most important benefits is the feeling of community. Living among people who share similar experiences and life stages can be incredibly valuable, especially for the business alone.

A January 2023 University of Michigan national poll on healthy aging found that 34% of Americans ages 50 to 80 reported feeling isolated from others sometimes or often, and 37% reported a lack of company. Retirees are particularly prone to loneliness, as work often provides a primary social outlet. Senior living communities can help solve this problem.

Additionally, these communities often offer a wide range of on-site amenities, such as tennis courts, swimming pools, and fitness classes. Many older adults struggle to fill their days after retirement, but staying active not only staves off boredom, but also helps prevent certain health problems.

Finally, moving to a senior community can also ease the burden of home maintenance, which becomes increasingly difficult with age. Residents generally only have to manage the interior of their home, as most major maintenance issues are handled by a homeowners association.

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Don’t let food hold you back

If concerns about nutrition are preventing you from moving to a senior community, there are ways to address them while still enjoying the many benefits these communities offer.

First, many senior living communities are investing in better dining options, recognizing that food quality and nutrition are important aspects of residents’ lives. Before you assume the food will be substandard, take the time to do some research and visit communities to see their offerings for yourself.

Plus, services like DoorDash and UberEats make it easier than ever to order food from your favorite restaurants and have it delivered right to your door. If food is a priority in your budget, this additional expense could allow you to enjoy the social aspects of senior living without relying solely on on-site meals.

If you’re concerned that the food at a senior living community isn’t nutritious enough, you can always supplement your own meal prep or sign up for meal delivery services that cater to different dietary needs, whether you’re on a diet vegan, keto or otherwise. other specific diet.

In 2023, U.S. consumers spent an average of $3,933 dining out, according to the Bureau of Labor Statisticswith food expenses representing around 13% of their overall budget. If you are retired and considering joining a senior living community, your overall spending may be lower than the average consumer, giving you room to spend more on food to improve your quality of life. global life.

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This article provides information only and should not be considered advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.