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What to Look for in a Senior Living Community

In 2020, people 65 or older made up 17 percent of the U.S. population. By 2050, experts expect that to climb to more than 20 percent. These impressive figures make it easy to see why today’s seniors can choose from an expanding range of options for senior housing. Unfortunately, with so many possibilities, information overload is a very real concern. Knowing what to look for in a senior living community can help you stay on track.  

Where Is It Located?

Real estate pros are laser-focused on location for a reason. A desirable location can make all the difference. Locations also impact cost. Where do you want to spend your time? Are you interested in being near family or friends? Do you want to be in an area that offers specific activities? What qualities are important to you? The Piper is located in Kansas City, a vibrant yet affordable city with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Take a virtual tour to explore our community.

What Level of Care Is Offered?

When considering what to look for in a senior living community, the provided levels of care are essential. While many older adults appreciate having assistance available, the level of help that they need can be vastly different. As a result, senior living communities offer varying levels of care. At The Piper, we offer all of the following:

  • Assisted living helps seniors retain their independence by promoting wellness, supporting socializing in the community, and offering customizable levels of assistance with everyday tasks.
  • Memory care supports seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and similar conditions. Caregivers trained in memory care provide basic support and specialized care designed to engage the mind and spirit.
  • Physician-directed nursing is designed for seniors with significant medical needs. This type of community can provide the highest level of care in a household setting.

Is the Lifestyle a Good Match?

Communities come in all shapes and sizes. And like neighborhoods, communities can have personalities. Touring a community and talking with staff and residents can be a good way to get a feel for the area. Consider whether you’d be happy to live there. At The Piper, we use the Household Model, maintaining a beautiful home designed around our residents’ needs. Residents share common areas yet enjoy true independence with their own personal apartments.

What Amenities Are Offered?

Senior living communities often offer a menu of amenities, but the list varies from place to place. The best way to find out exactly what’s offered is to check with any community that you’re considering. Consider scheduling a tour so you can ask this and all sorts of pressing questions.

Does the Events Calendar Look Interesting?

Engagement that keeps the mind and body active is important for staying healthy. Senior living communities are committed to wellness, so most maintain thriving events calendars. Of course, that doesn’t mean that you’ll find what a community offers intriguing. Check out their events calendar. Does it look interesting? Are the offerings varied? Is the events coordinator open to suggestions?

What About the Cost?

Cost is inevitably a factor, so you’ll need to explore the price tag for living in the community. Ask what is included in the price and what services and amenities are considered extras. As you explore costs, remember that affordability is an important consideration. However, settling for the cheapest option could mean sacrificing vital quality, comfort, and service.

Does the Community Have a Solid Reputation?

Peace of mind is often cited among the reasons for moving to a senior living community. Seniors and their loved ones want to know that someone trustworthy is close at hand in case an issue arises. Selecting a senior living community with a solid reputation is a good way to secure the quality care you’re seeking.

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Choosing a senior living community is a major decision. There are numerous factors to weigh, but certain ones consistently make it to the top of the list, so they serve as a good starting point. Which factors are the most important? That’s up to you.

Are you seeking an assisted living, memory support, or physician-directed nursing community in Kansas City? Check out The Piper. Our team of experienced and compassionate professionals ensures that “residents feel secure” and comfortable immediately. At our warm and welcoming community, which is truly a “home within a home,” we foster social interaction, engagement, and the right amount of care. Our residents always come first. To learn more about our services, please schedule a tour, call us at 913-361-5136, or send us a message online.