8 Things to Consider When Choosing a Retirement Community

Throughout your life, outside factors often drove the decision about where to live. If you had children, it was the schools. If you had a career, it was proximity to work. But now that you’re in (or close to) your retirement years, your priorities have shifted. Maybe it’s your dream to live by water. Or with a mountain view. So how do you find the perfect retirement community to match your vision?

Truth is a nice view is only one aspect of your decision tree. It’s equally important to ensure that the senior living community—as well as the city it’s located in meets all your needs and expectations for the best retirement life. And that means asking yourself (and the community representative) some key questions.

What to Ask About Any Senior Living Community You’re Considering

The role location plays when choosing senior living is bigger than you might think. Location affects everything, from your lifestyle to your ability to receive medical care to your tax liability and more. Below are eight questions to consider as you search for the ideal senior living community.

1.  Is it convenient to hospitals and other medical care—as well as a veterinary clinic if you have pets? It’s easy to be mesmerized by a retirement community’s serene, beautiful setting away from the hustle and bustle of the city—but be realistic. You don’t want to be    traveling long distances for every doctor’s appointment or to get to the hospital in an emergency. If you have a pet, you’ll also want to be near a good vet clinic (and possibly an emergency vet clinic) when you need one.
2. Is the state you’re considering tax-friendly for seniors? You might be surprised to learn that some states are “friendlier” than others when it comes to taxing seniors, including New Jersey where Monroe Village is located. Thirteen states tax your Social Security income, and state tax laws also differ on taxing pensions and withdrawals from retirement accounts. Keep these factors in mind as you explore new places to retire.
3. How is the cost of living in the city where the community is located? Travelers are often surprised to find that a gallon of gas doesn’t cost the same everywhere. Same with groceries, movies, dining, etc. It’s easy to go online to check the cost of living in any location you’re considering, so be sure to do that to help narrow your search.
4. Is it close to things you enjoy (parks, shopping, culture, entertainment, dining)?  Moving to a retirement community should mean being surrounded by everything you love about life. If a daily stroll for a cup of Joe is your thing, seek a location with a good walkability factor. If you like to dine out and go to movies, how close are restaurants and attractions? Quality senior living communities like Monroe Village typically offer free shuttles to shopping, appointments, etc. If you have a car, ask about ample onsite close-in parking for residents.
5.  How important is proximity to family? If you’re used to having family just a short drive from home or expect you’ll want this support system as you age, focus your retirement community search on familiar territory. If you’re ready to try a new town and spread your wings, a heart-to-heart talk with your family will likely help all of you feel comfortable with the fact that you want to explore living elsewhere.
6. How accessible is it to airports, public transit, and major highways? It’s no fun to have to drive two hours to reach the nearest airport or train station, or to discover Uber or taxi service isn’t available where you live. If getting out and about is important to you, look for a community like Monroe Village with accessibility to what you need.
7. If family from out-of-town visits, will there be fun things to see and do—and a hotel nearby where they can stay? You want to show your family a good time, especially the grandkids—so get a feel for what the location has available in terms of age-appropriate attractions and activities. Also confirm there are a few hotel options close to your community to make the visit especially welcoming.
8. Is the community maintenance-free so you don’t have to deal with upkeep? You’ve paid your mowing and fix-it dues, so it’s time to let someone else take care of it! At Monroe Village, you can leave the chores to us. As you search for retirement communities, be sure to ask if they are maintenance-free.

The Atrium at Navesink Harbor Could Be Just What You’re Looking For.

In a Springpoint community like The Atrium at Navesink Harbor, it’s easy to fall for the amazing waterfront living. It’s breathtaking, whether you’re enjoying the view with your morning coffee or strolling beside it at sunset. But this retirement community offers so much more.

We believe that knowing what makes The Atrium at Navesink Harbor such a special place to live will set the bar pretty high for any other community you visit. So why not let us show you the best of everything within our community and around Red Bank? If you complete the request form, one of our team members will get back to you to arrange a tour and a complimentary meal. We look forward to meeting you!