5 of the Most Common Misconceptions about Senior Living

Myth vs Truth When It Comes to Senior Living

If you’re currently considering a senior living community for yourself or a loved one, you’re in the midst of one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make—how and where to spend your future. A word of caution: Everyone is going to have an opinion for you, and it will be important for you to sort out the myths from the truths to avoid being confused or overwhelmed. Here we’ll dispel the five most common misconceptions when it comes to senior living.

Luther Manor can help by being a valuable resource to you and your family as you navigate this very personal journey. Here, we’re going to focus on 5 of the most common misconceptions you’re undoubtedly hearing. And we’ll try to give you a little clarity for the senior lifestyle that’s the best fit for your future.

MYTH #1: Senior living communities are only for older and more in need seniors.

If you’re currently considering a senior living community for yourself or a loved one, you’re in the midst of one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make—how and where to spend your future. A word of caution: Everyone is going to have an opinion for you. It will be important for you to sort out the myths from the truths to avoid being confused or overwhelmed.

TRUTH: Senior living communities have changed from decades ago—and so has society’s ideas about aging.

Seniors today are choosing community living more for the lifestyle than the need for care. There’s no “right age” to make the move anymore. More often than not, now a senior makes this move to get away from home maintenance, cooking and cleaning, and to free-up time for activities, personal hobbies and socialization.

At Luther Manor, one question we get frequently is: What will my neighbors be like? To which we answer: Here, you’ll find neighbors and friends with diverse talents, interests and backgrounds who come from all across the state and country. They’re energetic, fun-loving, reserved, intelligent, creative and well-rounded, and make the community a wonderful place to live. Read more Frequently Asked Questions from seniors interested in moving to Luther Manor.

MYTH #2: I’ll lose my independence and have to give up the activities and hobbies I enjoy.

TRUTH: Senior living communities have evolved to meet the needs and wants of their residents.

Most of today’s seniors are no longer content resting and relaxing in their La-Z-Boy in front of the TV. A variety of outings, activities, fitness and art classes, opportunities for socialization and flexible dining options are offered. Participation is up to the resident. No one is demanding a set schedule. Residents are free to try new things and discover new hobbies, as they are no longer tied to household responsibilities.

Since 1961, Luther Manor has taken a holistic approach to caring for the mind, body and spirit of residents through an array of helpful services, amenities and enjoyable life enrichment programs. Grounded in the Midwestern values of caring for others, the experienced staff and management of Luther Manor understand what residents need and want. It is this resident-centered approach to senior living that enhances the independence and personal satisfaction of each resident who calls Luther Manor home.

MYTH #3: Senior living communities are expensive.

TRUTH: Actually, the cost of senior living is often comparable to or less than the same services and support you are used to in your home.

First of all, the cost of your senior living residence commonly depends upon the floor plan you choose. Additionally, its location within the community and the number of people living in that residence are also factors. Consider for a moment what you are giving up and what you will be gaining. Even if you no longer have a mortgage, homeownership is costly. You have insurance, taxes, upkeep and repairs, utilities, gym memberships, dining, activities and entertainment, emergency expenses, and, more.

At a senior living community like Luther Manor, one rate covers all these household expenses, along with the security of priority access to on-site levels of care, if ever needed. As a Life Plan Community, Luther Manor has a sensible strategy for life’s what-ifs. So residents can feel well-prepared with predictable, streamlined costs, convenient services and the availability of numerous on-site care options.

MYTH #4: The food in senior living communities is notoriously unappetizing.

TRUTH: Truthfully, at today’s senior living communities, health and wellness are central to the lifestyle, and nutrition plays a very important role.

Old stereotypes are not easily forgotten. Senior living communities offer an ever-changing menu of nutritional meals. This gives residents options that fit every lifestyle and dietary need.

From traditional comfort foods to flavorful farm-to-table fare, Luther Manor’s dining options include Chives American Grill for soups, salads, sandwiches, etc., in a casual setting; Park Terrace Dining Room for hearty home-style dinners and lunch; Take Thyme Cafe for a light breakfast or lunch in a great social setting; and the Hearth Club for cocktails and snacks with friends.

MYTH #5: Moving is too difficult—I’ll just wait until I need care to settle into senior living community.

TRUTH: Making the decision to move into a senior living community before you actually need the care services makes the most sense.

If you wait until an illness or health crisis occurs, you or your family may be forced to pick a community based on availability, not desirability. Why not only move once? Many independent living communities have higher levels of care—assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and rehab services—that you can take advantage of without the worry of moving again.

Luther Manor strives to help find the best match between residents, their needs, and our senior care services. For example, use the valuable MoneyGauge tool to find the residence that best fits you financially. And be sure to read our blog, What to Look for in a 55+ Community, for recommendations as you start visiting and shopping for the retirement lifestyle you worked so hard for.