Deciding Where to Call Home in Your 70s
For many, turning 70 is a milestone that brings new considerations about lifestyle and living arrangements. As a 70 year old, you are likely in good health and active, but planning for the future is a key component of healthy aging. The right housing decision can enhance your quality of life, provide peace of mind, and ensure your needs are met for years to come. This guide explores the diverse options available, the critical factors to evaluate, and how to make the best choice for your unique situation.
Key Factors for Your Housing Decision
Before exploring specific housing types, consider these fundamental aspects of your life. Your priorities will heavily influence which option is the best fit for you.
Your Current and Future Health Needs
One of the most important considerations is your health. While you may be independent now, it's wise to consider future possibilities. Think about:
- Do you have any chronic conditions that might worsen over time?
- Could you foresee needing help with activities of daily living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, or managing medication?
- Are you in a location with access to quality healthcare, including specialists you may need?
Financial Considerations
Money plays a significant role in every housing decision. Moving to a different state or type of community can have major financial impacts. Evaluate your budget based on:
- Upfront Costs: Are you selling a home or paying a community entrance fee?
- Monthly Expenses: How do property taxes, utilities, and community fees compare to your current costs?
- Future Costs: How will rising healthcare or caregiving costs impact your budget over time?
- Taxes: Consider how different states or countries tax retirement income and social security.
Social Engagement and Community
Staying socially active is a major predictor of long-term health and well-being. Combatting social isolation is a key benefit of many living options. Consider what you need from a community:
- Do you want to live near family and old friends?
- Do you prefer a quiet, low-key setting or a vibrant community with organized activities?
- Is it easy for you to access social gatherings, cultural events, or volunteer opportunities?
Lifestyle and Interests
What does your ideal day look like? Do you enjoy gardening, golfing, or exploring new cities? Your hobbies and passions should guide your location choice. For example, if you love hiking, a home in a mountainous region might be perfect, while a low-maintenance condo community might be better for those who prefer travel over yard work.
A Comparison of Popular Housing Options
This table provides a quick look at the main types of living arrangements available to people in their 70s.
| Feature | Aging in Place | Independent Living | Assisted Living | Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ideal for | Active seniors wanting maximum independence and familiarity. | Socially-engaged seniors seeking convenience and amenities with minimal upkeep. | Those needing daily support with ADLs but not 24/7 skilled nursing care. | Seniors who want a long-term plan with guaranteed access to higher levels of care. |
| Services Included | Often minimal, requires hiring help for maintenance or care. | Housekeeping, meals, transportation, and activities are common. | All of Independent Living services plus help with personal care and medication management. | All levels of care, from independent to skilled nursing, on one campus. |
| Cost Structure | Ongoing homeownership costs, plus potential modification or in-home care expenses. | Typically a monthly fee covering housing, amenities, and some services. | Monthly fee determined by level of care required. | Large upfront entrance fee plus monthly fees that may change with care level. |
| Level of Care | Self-directed, requires proactive arrangement of any necessary care. | No daily assistance with ADLs provided by the community. | Hands-on assistance with ADLs available 24/7 from trained staff. | Residents can move between independent, assisted, and skilled nursing care as needs change. |
Detailed Look at Senior Living Options
Aging in Place: Staying in Your Own Home
For many, the thought of leaving their beloved home is disheartening. Aging in place offers the comfort of familiar surroundings and memories. However, it is not a passive option; it requires deliberate planning.
Planning for aging in place includes:
- Home Modifications: Simple changes can make a big difference. Install grab bars, add a ramp, or convert a first-floor room into a master suite to avoid stairs. Technology, like smart home devices, can also improve safety.
- In-Home Care: As needs change, you may require in-home care, from a few hours of help with errands to full-time medical assistance.
- Village Organizations: These grassroots, member-driven networks connect neighbors to help each other with tasks like transportation and chores, fostering community and support.
Active Adult and Independent Living Communities
If you want to shed the burden of home maintenance while staying active, these communities are an excellent choice. They are designed for healthy, self-sufficient adults, often 55 or older, who want a socially rich, maintenance-free lifestyle.
- 55+ Communities: These neighborhoods or apartment complexes offer amenities like clubhouses, pools, and social activities, but residents are independent.
- Independent Living Communities: Similar to a resort, these communities include apartment-style homes with a range of included amenities and services, like chef-prepared meals, transportation, and scheduled social events.
Assisted Living: When More Support is Needed
Assisted living is for seniors who need help with daily activities but do not require complex medical care. Residents live in their own apartments or rooms and receive personalized support. This option strikes a balance between independence and assistance.
Common services in assisted living include:
- Three daily meals
- Help with bathing, dressing, and grooming
- Medication management
- Housekeeping and laundry
- 24/7 security and emergency response
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)
For those who want a comprehensive, long-term plan, a CCRC is a compelling option. Residents can transition between different levels of care—independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing—all on the same campus. This removes the stress of having to move multiple times as health needs evolve.
- Benefits: Predictability and consistency of care, familiarity with the community, and a seamless transition between care levels.
- Considerations: CCRCs often require a substantial entrance fee in addition to monthly payments, making them one of the more expensive options.
Cohousing and Shared Living
Echoing the spirit of community, cohousing involves residents participating in the design and management of their collaborative community. Private residences are clustered around shared common areas, encouraging social interaction and mutual support.
- House Sharing: Inspired by sitcoms like The Golden Girls, seniors can share a home to reduce living costs and loneliness. Websites like Silvernest can help connect compatible housemates.
Making the Final Decision
To determine where to live in your 70s, it is crucial to perform thorough research and honest self-assessment. Tour different types of communities, speak to residents, and consult with family or a trusted financial advisor. The right choice is the one that best aligns with your finances, health, social desires, and long-term vision for a fulfilling retirement.
An excellent resource for exploring different options and assessing your needs is the National Council on Aging. Their senior housing options page provides detailed information on finding the right fit for your situation. Take your time, weigh your priorities, and choose a place where you can thrive in the years to come.
