Although people thrive in different environments, research increasingly shows clear health benefits for seniors who move to a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), also known as a life plan community. For example, the 2018 Age Well Study found that, compared with a demographically similar group of community-dwelling seniors (those not living in a CCRC), CCRC … Read more
As a follow up to recent posts about the challenges in comparing continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) and rental retirement communities, I want to clarify how the term “independent living” is used across the senior living industry. Spoiler alert: “Independent living” can describe several different situations, which understandably causes confusion. Both rental retirement communities and … Read more
In conversations with people exploring senior living options, one common question I hear is which states offer the best long-term care. The Long-Term Services & Supports (LTSS) State Scorecard for 2020 provides data-driven insight into that question. The scorecard, produced by the AARP Foundation, The Commonwealth Fund, and The SCAN Foundation, evaluates LTSS from the … Read more
Retirement is not a single moment but a journey made up of distinct stages. Each stage brings its own financial considerations, lifestyle changes, and important decisions that influence long-term security and well-being. Recognizing these stages helps you prepare, adapt, and enjoy life at every phase. Whether you are working now, getting ready to retire, … Read more
When people start exploring senior living options, a common initial question is, “Which choice costs the least?” That’s a reasonable place to begin. Most of us have been careful with money throughout our lives, and housing and care expenses can become significant as we age. Many are uncertain about what senior living will cost and … Read more
There are an estimated three million openly lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) seniors in the United States, and that number is expected to grow as Baby Boomers enter retirement. This population represents a significant and expanding market for the senior living industry. At the same time, a 2013 study by Erin Fitzgerald, MPA, and … Read more
According to AARP’s report “2021 Tech Trends and the 50+,” the pandemic accelerated seniors’ adoption of consumer technology. From smartphones and tablets to wearables such as the Apple Watch and Fitbit, more Americans age 50 and older are buying tech devices. The largest increase, however, has been in smart home technology. Between 2019 and 2020, … Read more
As COVID-19 cases rise again with the Delta variant, hospitals in many areas are under strain and the unvaccinated remain especially vulnerable. It’s understandable to feel anxious reading about renewed restrictions and remembering the isolation many experienced earlier in the pandemic. Yet there is an unexpected bright spot: residents of senior living communities are reporting … Read more
Watching your parents age can stir a complex mix of emotions: gratitude, worry, love, and uncertainty. For many adult children—especially those in the “sandwich generation” balancing their own children and aging parents—this time can feel overwhelming. Yet there are practical steps you can take now to reduce stress later, preserve your parents’ independence, and ensure … Read more
March is National Nutrition Month, an annual initiative from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics that highlights the importance of informed food choices and healthy habits around eating and physical activity. For older adults, proper nutrition is especially important. Family members and caregivers should watch for changes in appetite or weight, and be aware of … Read more