Frequently Asked Questions

There are a number of questions you might want to ask yourself:

• Is my house and yard becoming more of a “job” than an enjoyment? Has the joy of homeownership become an expensive, physically challenging or time-consuming burden?
• Am I spending more time on things I “have to do,” rather than things I “want to do?”
• What has happened to make me think about considering retirement living? Is there something that’s no longer “working” for me?
• Would I like more opportunities for socialization and to pursue the activities I enjoy?
• Do I have ready access to shopping, medical services, cultural and other activities, and transportation?
• Would moving to a retirement community be close to my friends and family? (We have observed that for many seniors, living in closer proximity to adult children or other loved ones is a key factor in making a move to Parkwood.)
• Is meal preparation a chore, or a joy? Would I enjoy having access to meals, if I choose?

Action steps:

• Start a conversation — as soon as possible. And recognize that acceptance of the idea may need to grow over time.
• Identify a few retirement communities that might be appropriate and tour them. (An important test: When taking the tours — do you immediately feel welcome and at-home? Parkwood Community is known for its family-like atmosphere. Please compare!)

There are many types of retirement communities — with a wide variety of fee structures. You will want to choose the one that’s appropriate for you. (Parkwood can help advise and guide you and your loved ones on this.)

Parkwood Retirement, for example, is a rental community. Residents sign a month-to-month lease.

Many seniors find that with the sale of their home, along with the associated reduction of taxes, ongoing maintenance costs, etc., making a move to a retirement community is not only reasonable, it makes a lot of financial sense. It’s important to consider not only the tangible costs, but also the intangible. Examples of some intangible benefits are peace of mind associated with no home maintenance, easy access to social opportunities without having to drive to them and the freedom to spend your time doing the things you enjoy most. We’ll be glad to help walk you through this process, and we have helpful guidelines that will help put the financial component into perspective.

You’re not alone! Some retirees find themselves overwhelmed by the prospect and process of moving. Downsizing, putting a home on the market and planning a move can seem monumental — until you break the idea down into logical, manageable segments. There are many methods to tackling all of your belongings. We’ve worked with many experts in this area and would love to share all of the information we have with you. It’s important to remember this is achievable!

One of the most important elements to look for in a retirement community is lifestyle. In times past, many senior adults were content to more or less park themselves and live out their lives. Not anymore! Today’s seniors have the opportunity to live their lives to the fullest. For example, at Parkwood there are many opportunities to join in culturally and intellectually engaging events.

The answer to this question is different for everyone. When you begin your search, make a list of the things that are important to you. The first things that tend to come to mind are things such as: apartment features, opportunities to socialize and meet friends, meals, etc.

Here are some other factors to consider:

1. 1. Ratings/experience – Check the community’s online ratings. This is a good way to see what others have experienced at the community. When visiting the community, talk to current residents. Find out how they feel about living there.
2. 2. Stability – Has the community changed ownership/leadership frequently? Understand the impact of those changes.
3. 3. Does it feel like home? This is really one of the most important aspects of selecting a community. Some things to ask yourself: Can I see myself living here? Do I feel welcome? Do other residents seem happy? If you can say it feels like home, you’ve made your decision!

Most people, upon moving to a retirement community such as Parkwood, find themselves wishing they had made the move much sooner! Your parent or loved one can enjoy a carefree lifestyle, free to pursue the activities they want and enjoy — rather than their responsibilities. They can be near family, in a “just like family“ atmosphere of a caring staff and friends their own age, with similar interests — where there are always activities and events that provide physical, mental, emotional and spiritual engagement.