What should someone keep in mind when choosing a retirement community?

Choosing the Right Retirement Community: What to Know Before You Decide

Choosing a retirement community is a major life decision—one that goes far beyond selecting a place to live. It’s about finding a community that supports your current lifestyle while offering peace of mind for future care needs. As you explore your options, consider key factors such as financial structure, operational stability, quality of care, available services, lifestyle, and location.

Every Community Is Different

Each retirement community has its own unique personality, culture, and amenities. Much like choosing a college, the goal is to find a place where you feel a true sense of belonging.

Take the time to visit communities in person, observe daily life, speak with residents, and get a sense of the overall atmosphere. Ask yourself:
Can I see myself living and thriving here?

Quality of Care Matters

While amenities and lifestyle offerings are important, the quality of care should always be a top priority.

• Review state inspection reports
• Tour the healthcare center
• Ask detailed questions about levels of care offered
• Understand what’s included in your contract and what may cost extra as your needs evolve

Taking the time now to understand these details can help you avoid unwelcome surprises down the road.

Understanding the Financial Models

Retirement communities typically fall into one of two financial categories: rental or buy-in (also known as Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) or Life Plan Communities).

• Rental communities offer flexibility and lower upfront costs. These are ideal if you want the freedom to relocate or aren’t ready for a long-term commitment.
• Buy-in or Life Plan communities require a substantial entrance fee plus an ongoing monthly payment. In return, you receive guaranteed access to on-site care, functioning similarly to a long-term care insurance plan.

Because of the financial investment involved in buy-in communities, it’s essential to do your homework:

• Review financial statements
• Research the operator’s history
• Understand refund policies
• Ask about governance and long-term sustainability

Location: A Personal Decision

Where you live in retirement significantly impacts your day-to-day life. Consider whether you want to:

• Stay near your current home
• Move closer to family
• Relocate to a new region entirely

Think about your preferences for climate, access to healthcare, proximity to loved ones, and the availability of social and recreational activities.

Discuss With Your Family

It’s important to involve your family in the conversation. Whether you’re speaking with your adult children or your spouse, having “the talk” ensures that everyone understands your goals, preferences, and concerns.

Evaluate the pros and cons together and consider how your decision might affect those closest to you.

Timing Is Everything

One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting too long to begin the process. Often, individuals only consider a move after a health event, when time is limited and options are fewer.

Ask yourself two key questions:

• When should I start the process?
• When do I actually want to move?

These timelines are often different. Touring communities, asking questions, and comparing options takes time. In-demand communities, especially those with desirable floor plans or locations often have waitlists. If you want a specific view, layout, or building location, it’s best to plan ahead and get on a priority list early.

Waiting too long can also carry medical risks. A change in health could make you ineligible for certain levels of care, particularly in independent living.

Beware the “Shiny New Nickel”

Senior living is a rapidly growing industry, and new communities are opening frequently. While a new building may be attractive, appearances can be deceiving.

A modern facility doesn’t automatically guarantee high-quality care or financial stability. If a community requires a large upfront entrance fee, do your due diligence. Ask questions such as:

• Who operates this community?
• Do they have a proven track record?
• Are their financials transparent and strong?
• Take your time, and don’t base your decision on looks alone.

Seek Expert Guidance

Working with a local senior housing advisor can be invaluable. These professionals offer deep insight into your area’s communities, including those that may not show up on your radar.

They can:

• Compare communities’ side by side
• Offer feedback on services, care, and reputation
• Help match your goals with the right options
• Accompany you on tours and ask questions you may not know to ask
• Guide you through contracts and financial terms

A trusted advisor can save you significant time, reduce stress, and help you feel confident in your decision.

Do Your Research—and Know Who You’re Talking To

Be cautious when using national senior housing search websites. While they can provide general information, many are lead generation platforms—they often refer you to communities they’re paid to promote, not necessarily the ones that are best for you.

These services may lack in-depth knowledge of your local market and rarely provide unbiased recommendations.

Whenever possible, seek guidance from a local senior housing advisor or consultant who understands the nuances of your area, has personally toured the communities, and can give you objective, experience-based advice tailored to your needs.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a retirement community isn’t just about preparing for the future—it’s about enhancing your quality of life today. A well-matched community can offer meaningful connections, opportunities for growth, peace of mind, and a renewed sense of purpose.

As many of my clients say: “It was the best decision we ever made. We only wish we had done it sooner.”