How to Know If an Apartment Is Good for Senior Living
Posted on: 15 September 2016
If you're looking for a place to rent and are approaching retirement, you might be feeling discouraged. Many people in your age demographic own homes or move to retirement communities, but that may not be what you are looking for. On the other hand, you also don't want to be the only senior in a building full of college students or young families with children. When touring potential places to live, what are some key signs to look for to help you know the apartment will good for a senior lifestyle?
1. Easy access to amenities.
This is one of the biggest things you should look for. While you many not care about having a workout room or swimming pool, you will still need to do laundry and spend time outside. Does the unit have a washer and dryer, or must you use a community laundry room or a laundromat? Is the community laundry room easily accessible by elevator, or is it on the main floor? If there is a pool or exercise facilities, are there stairs that lead into the water or machines that allow you to sit (a bike instead of a treadmill)? These are some things to keep in mind. When you're renting, you are also paying for the amenities, so having access to them is important.
2. Simple layout.
Many older apartments (basements, converted homes, and so forth) have odd angles, tight hallways, and small bathrooms that make accessibility difficult. If you are living alone, look for a studio apartment that keeps everything in one room. No hallways and an open kitchen will be easier to handle if you ever need to use a wheelchair, cane, or walker as you get older. Tasks like cleaning are also made much simpler. Looking at places that offer studio accommodations also reduces the chances of having neighbors with young children or single college students: these groups typically rent units with separate bedrooms.
3. Access to basic needs.
If you live in a city, is the place close to public transportation? If you have a car, does the apartment provide parking, and do you require handicap parking for your car? Other considerations to include are whether or not family can visit you easily, or if you will need to leave frequently for health care or volunteer activities. Grocery stores should remain close by, as should a local pharmacy.
For help finding the perfect place to live to suit your retirement needs, contact a real-estate agent in your area.
Share