Navigating the transition to senior communities with care and consideration

The holidays. It is a time for joy, togetherness, reflection and, for many, time to come home to spend precious moments with aging parents.

“As a seniors’ real estate specialist, I often witness the subtle signs that may indicate our loved ones need additional support,” says Dayna Wilson, a seasoned Realtor with Keller Williams Realty. “Recognizing these signs early on can be crucial in ensuring health, happiness and peace of mind for seniors and their adult children,” she adds. She offers the following suggestions:

Physical changes: Watch for changes in mobility, balance or appearance. Unexplained bruises, difficulty moving around or a noticeable decline in personal hygiene might indicate that daily activities are becoming challenging.

Changes in the home environment: Take note of the condition of their living space. Piles of unopened mail, neglected housekeeping or an overly cluttered environment may suggest that maintaining their home has become overwhelming.

Social withdrawal: Isolation can significantly impact mental and emotional well-being. If your parents seem increasingly isolated, express disinterest in social activities or lack engagement, it may be time to consider options that foster community and companionship.

Cognitive decline: Forgetfulness or changes in cognitive function can be early signs of more serious issues. Pay attention to memory lapses, confusion about routine tasks or challenges in communication.

“As we observe these signs,” says Wilson, “it’s essential to approach the conversation with empathy and a focus on finding solutions that enhance their overall well-being. Unlike decision-making in middle adulthood, as people reach their later years, they prefer to take more time and consider their options. Rushing them or pressing them to make decisions can create resistance and impede forward progress.”

Understanding the needs and concerns of older adults

“Having interviewed and served older adults, both those having relocated and those ‘aging-in-place,’ the overwhelming majority report a desire to live where they can remain as independent and autonomous as possible, social, have family interaction and access to health care and other support services,” says Wilson.

Studies show time and again the most important factors contributing to “successful” aging include: a sense of purpose, good health, regular physical activity, good nutrition and as much autonomy as possible. Dayna suggests a good book for caregivers and adult children assisting older parents would be “How to Say it to Seniors: Closing the Communication Gap With Our Elders” by David Solie. The author suggests the top priorities of older adults are maintaining control in a world where all control is being lost, and leaving a legacy in a world where time is running short.

When opening a dialogue around housing or other complex topics consider: Listening first and resisting the temptation to delay difficult discussions, focus on your loved one’s needs and wishes, not your own and proceed as a partner not the parent. Once you’ve understood their lifestyle likes and dislikes, offer solutions, explore options, be patient and don’t “should” on them. Allow your loved ones to process the discussion and revisit it at an agreed upon time.

One impactful solution to the variety of senior housing options often overlooked is transitioning to a senior community designed to support socialization and provide engaging activities and delicious meals.

The benefits of senior communities

Socialization and companionship: Senior communities provide a vibrant atmosphere where residents can connect with peers and foster friendships and a sense of belonging. Regular social activities and events cater to diverse interests, ensuring that each resident can find joy and companionship.

Enriching activities: These communities offer a variety of activities designed to stimulate the mind, body and spirit. From fitness classes to art workshops, residents can explore new passions and stay active, promoting overall well-being.

Nutritious and delicious meals: Proper nutrition is crucial for seniors’ health. Many senior communities prioritize culinary excellence, providing well-balanced and flavorful meals that cater to specific dietary needs.

Peace of mind for adult children: Knowing that your parents are in a supportive community where their needs are met allows adult children to enjoy the holidays with peace of mind. It’s comforting to witness your loved ones thriving in an environment that prioritizes their happiness and health.

“As we gather with family during the holiday season, let’s approach these conversations with sensitivity and a shared goal of ensuring the well-being of our aging parents,” Wilson suggests. “Transitioning to a senior community can be a positive step, fostering a fulfilling and enriching chapter in their lives and providing a sense of assurance for the entire family.”

Stage Not Age — January’s seminar topic

Wilson’s upcoming monthly Savvy Seniors Living Seminar on January 3 is “Aging in America — Stage Not Age.”

“There used to be a three-stage view of modern life: learn, earn and retire, but today that doesn’t make sense,” she says because chronological age is not a reliable indicator of a person’s capabilities, interests or needs. Multiple life stages exist within retirement, including more learning and earning. Older adults are also more focused on healthy aging and are more active and engaged than ever before.

Wilson invites seniors and their adult children to come learn how to change the agenda of what aging in America looks like and how it affects you in 2024.

Homeownership

Home has different meanings for different people. Some view homeownership simply as a financial investment. Others think of home as the place where families are meant to gather and grow. Homes, for some, are merely places to store collections and things passed down, while to others, the home represents freedom and independence.

However, along with the apparent advantages of homeownership come specific responsibilities. Mowing and weeding the lawn, raking leaves, trimming shrubs, painting fences, and repairing broken faucets are all part of the package.

Most owners take great pride in doing the maintenance and upkeep, both inside and out. That is until it becomes too physically challenging.

Shift from owning to leasing

While it’s true that most people in the 65 and older age group prefer owning over leasing, there is a new trend on the horizon. More and more seniors are opting for the simplicity that accompanies leasing. Whether these active retirees are planning for travel or the possibility of future health care needs, they are attracted to smaller, low-maintenance, and full-service neighborhoods, as well as planned communities.

There are certainly benefits to leasing. Someone else gets to deal with the broken pipes, leaky roof, fallen leaves and failing appliances. Seniors may also find it’s easier to travel without worrying about leaving a home empty for extended periods.

Caregiving influences priorities

No longer reporting for work can mean more travel and spare time to enjoy hobbies. If health issues arise, however, travel may take a backseat to caregiving responsibilities.

Caregiving responsibilities, whether male or female, put a lot of strain on relationships. This is especially true when there are cognitive impairments or mobility challenges. Priorities must shift, and household maintenance and chores are usually less of a priority.

Visit Dayna@Dat-RealEstate.com/events for a complete list of her upcoming free senior-focused discussions. Register by calling (925) 330-4388.

Wilson is one of 16,000 Realtors who has earned the Senior Real Estate Specialist designation from the National Association of Realtors. She specializes in helping seniors and offers a wealth of resources, including her ongoing series of seminars addressing key topics that aging homeowners face.

She is also a member of an elite group of Realtors who have continued their training with the Seniors Real Estate Institute, earning the Certified Senior Housing Professional certification. She did all this to help the aging population address their unique real estate needs, offering these special people the highest level of service. She is called a “trailblazer” for the seminars and support she provides her local community.

Motivated by tangible results and the heartfelt gratitude of her clients, Wilson says she loves what she does and the special people she is grateful to assist. She earned the top No. 1 agent in the Northern California and Hawaii Region for Keller Williams Realty last year out of 9,000 agents and is the winner of the 5-Star Real Estate Professional award, based on anonymous surveys measuring customer satisfaction and production, for the 12th consecutive year. Wilson is also proud of her proven track record, including her percentage of Sales Price to List Price consistently higher than the average agent’s List price to Sales price; she nets her clients more money, while minimizing time, effort and stress for both the older homeowner and the family members supporting them through the transition.

Contact: Dayna Wilson DRE # 01781285, Keller Williams East Bay Realty (925) 788-6582.