Where is the "right" place to age

Dr. Diane Darby Beach

Special to Village News

Senior may be thinking about community living, but wonder if they are really “ready?” Once most seniors move into these types of communities, they say “I should have done it sooner.” Here are some of the benefits of community living and how to enjoy this environment earlier, rather than later.

Community have regularly scheduled social activities. These communities provide an ongoing schedule of activities for their residents such as exercise and art classes, movie nights, trips to local venues and museums. These communities make it easy to keep busy and stay active.

There are opportunities to create new connections. One big side effect of seniors remaining in their home is the risk of increased of loneliness, which is a big risk factor for anxiety, depression and other problems such as increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and high blood pressure. In these communities, seniors have the chance to make new friendships every day.

There is better access to health care. These communities generally have nursing personnel on staff and provide 24/7 access to caregiving help. As such, many unnecessary trips to the hospital or urgent care are avoided.

The community provides care for chores, home maintenance and meals. When seniors live alone at home, there’s always something more that needs to be done. This maintenance may become taxing over time and make them a “fall risk.” When they move to community living, however, all of that work is accomplished by the staff.

The community provides safety and security. In a community living environment, there is security provided both inside and outside. In addition, if a senior does take a fall or have another safety issue, staff are available 24/7.

Seniors can maintain their privacy and independence. Many times, seniors think they will no longer have autonomy and privacy in a community living setting. On the contrary, independence and privacy are assured. They can come and go as they please and their privacy is of utmost importance. Assistance is provided when needed or requested.

For more information on this topic, attend Silvergate’s May 16 seminar at 11 a.m. provided by gerontologist Dr. Diane Darby Beach. The location is 420 Elbrook Dr. in Fallbrook. The event is free, and lunch is provided. Call (760) 744-4484 to attend. Seating is limited.

Submitted by Silvergate Fallbrook.