Find the Best Retirement Community
When looking for a "best fit" in retirement living you need to be armed with a few "must haves." If you play tennis, like to swim, play golf, or enjoy five-star restaurant dining, stay focused on your list. It's easy to get carried away with a good sales associate and forget about your list. Remember that some sales people will say almost anything to earn a commission.
Steps
- Meet with your physician and talk about your current medical condition. Many retirement communities review health records and may not make available the full health care program if you have serious health problems.
- See if you have or can obtain insurance that will help defray the cost of living in the community. Some retirement communities, including continuing-care residential communities (CCRC), offer long-term-care insurance. There may be a "buy-in" (with an additional monthly premium) that entitles the resident to a level of care above the most basic. Independent Living is the lowest level: residents live on their own and are charged separately for any services obtained through the Resident Services department. Assisted Living offers additional services 24 hours a day with nursing oversight. The highest level of care is Skilled Nursing in a Nursing Home or Rehabilitation Center with Registered and Licensed Nurses providing medical oversight 24 hours a day.
- Be prepared to answer honestly any health-related questions the nurse-interviewer may have. Any questions intentionally left blank or not truthfully answered may void the contract, and you may end up without coverage. Most contracts have a 90-day clause that allows for either party to cancel the contract without penalty. Ask about the availability of each level of care and what requirements there are for switching later to a different level. Also ask what happens should you decide to move out or should you or your spouse pass away.
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