Many people live life looking forward to the future, but when they get to an anticipated time, it can be underwhelming. For many people, retirement means being able to relax but also enjoy those activities they didn’t have time for while working.

Unfortunately, health and financial challenges contribute to late and less than ideal retirements, but is there a better way? Each twist and turn of the road leads to life’s next great adventure, and even getting older can be a positive adventure if you have a plan to help you.

Thanks to Summit Vista and KSL, several different senior living options are at your fingertips in this ultimate guide.

Staying in your current home

There’s really no place like home, but staying where you are becomes problematic when you can’t maintain the same quality of life that you once enjoyed. Remaining in your current home might seem like the best thing currently, but what about 10 years from now?

Homes require maintenance and updating. The heavy labor of keeping up a home and its landscape isn’t most people’s idea of retirement. On the other hand, you need to have access to help and nearby health care services in the future, but a residential home can’t provide that. Think about the health risks that go into staying in your home long term. Is there a place you’d feel more secure in as you get older?

Living with family members

Many seniors prefer to stay in their homes, but when their health or finances won’t allow it, living with a close family member might be the next best thing. However, despite having a live-in helper, nurse and confidant, this puts a lot of pressure on your family member. Do they have the time, energy or resources to be your full-time employee? You may not need all their help now, but it definitely is a strain that you may not want to put on a loved one.

Multifamily housing

Many benefits come from living with others in your same situation, like multifamily homes for the elderly. However, space is usually limited and few facilities offer a full home setup. With relocation to multifamily housing, you’ll receive the benefit of a community while compromising on personal storage space. As a result, many residents are forced to give up the majority of their belongings, which can leave you feeling not quite at home. Likewise, very few multifamily senior housing facilities offer immediate access to individualized health care services.

Active adult community

Ideally the best of both worlds, an active adult community gives you freedom, space and comfort. The only problem is that this type of community is a quick fix at best for those who have declining health. With little to no health care services on hand, it may be difficult to feel fully prepared for the future of your retirement in this type of living situation.

Life plan community

What is a life plan community, and how does it differ from the above options? At the very least, a life plan community should provide:

• Multiple levels of care on campus
• Active lifestyle opportunities and focus
• Community integration and social responsibilities

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