Where and how do you want to live as you grow older? Your answer may depend on your physical, mental and emotional needs. There is no magic bullet or time that will tell you when to move; but you may discover that life is getting harder if you’re trying to do too many things alone.

Perhaps you have reached a point in your life where you wonder if there are living options that will make life easier. The following questions may help you decide if now is the right time to investigate these options:

Are you able to maintain your home, or do you need assistance with all the chores? It may be time for maintenance-free assisted living where tasks are done for you. Then, you can enjoy family visits and leave all those chores behind!

Do you feel safe getting around in your home to cook, do laundry and other activities? You may know someone who experienced a serious injury or may have had a close call yourself. Assisted living communities are designed to minimize accidents.

Do you wish you could spend more time with others? Studies show socially active people tend to stay healthier for longer periods of time. Independent and assisted living communities provide numerous opportunities to enjoy life with others.

Do you want neighbors while living in your own apartment? Typically, apartments and suites in assisted and independent living communities are privately owned or rented by each resident.  If you’re part of a couple who want to lives together, it is usually easy to find apartments with plenty of space for two.

What if you have an injury and need rehabilitation? Rehabilitation is on site at many care communities, so residents can access therapy. Rehabilitation may be covered by Medicare, private insurance or may be paid for privately. Also called transitional care, rehabilitation provides a bridge between the hospital and home, giving you time to recover from illness or injury. It can help you recover faster and stay stronger, whether you live in a care community or at home in your community.

If you need more help than you can comfortably get in a one-family home, or you are lonelier than you’d like to be, it may be time to consider a move to a community that provides a continuum of care. Many who do say they wished they had moved sooner—but only you can decide. Ω

Decisions about moving or caring for a loved one can be difficult to navigate. At Cassia, we are here to help. To learn more, please visit www.cassialife.org or contact us directly at communication@cassialife.org.