10 Things Retirement Communities Won't Tell You: What to Know Before Moving

Where do you want to spend your golden years? This is a question you'll likely struggle with in life post-retirement. For many, the plan is simple: live independently at home.

According to the Washington Post, 50% of older adults live with their friends and family. While aging gracefully at home is a good plan, old age comes with additional needs that may go unaddressed without the proper care. That's where assisted living communities come in.

These communities offer different living programs to enhance your well-being. But how can you know that? Let's explore 10 things retirement communities won't tell you and the tips for making an informed choice.

1. The Cost Structure

There are often various hidden costs in senior living. The advertised monthly fee may not be all you've got to pay. There are often additional costs for services not covered by the program.

For example, concierge and premium services are only accessible if you pay additional costs. Some of the hidden costs you can expect are:

Additional housekeeping services
Fees for healthcare services such as medication management
Package delivery and parking costs
Administrative services

Explore the amenities and services in assisted living communities before joining. Doing so helps you clearly understand what you can look forward to.

2. Lack of On-Site Medical Staff

Another thing you may not know about an assisted living community in Fond du Lac is that there isn't on-site medical staff. Most senior living communities won't tell you they don't have doctors, and the staff can't prescribe medication.

Nonetheless, the staff in assisted living at Fond du Lac is highly trained and can help you access healthcare services. Furthermore, medication management is one of the services you can access in assisted living.

3. Negotiable Contract Terms

The terms of the contract for retirement homes are often presented as non-negotiable. Some of the negotiable terms are:

Monthly fees and hidden costs in senior living
Care package levels
Termination clauses

According to the AHCA/NCAL, over 800,000 Americans live in assisted living communities. Negotiating can help you get more desirable living options at a more affordable price.

However, you can only discuss the price before signing the contract. Changing the terms once the contract is in effect can be very complicated.

4. Aging in Place Is Not a Guarantee

Aging in place is not a guarantee in some assisted living communities. This is one of the 10 things retirement communities won't tell you. Some seniors may require specialized care that is not available in retirement homes.

Consequently, you may have to explore advanced care communities. Consider your long-term needs when evaluating different retirement homes.

5. The Rates Are Adjustable

The rates you agree to are subject to change even if the contract takes effect. The prices may change due to various reasons and unforeseen circumstances. For example, the cost of assisted living communities increased during the Covid-19 pandemic due to heightened demand.

The contract may mention that the rate can change but not by what percentage. If changes occur, ask for a breakdown of the price increase. Alternatively, request a report of how the rate has changed in the past to get a clear picture of what adjustments you can expect

6. Social Dynamics Are Complex

An assisted living community is where you can expect your loved one to have access to peers. This means making new friends and getting access to an enriching social life. However, the social dynamics in assisted living communities are complex.

Luckily, there are specialized programs that can help tailor your social life to your liking. For instance, the veterans' program is specifically designed to help individuals with something in common grow old together.

7. The Rules Can be Restrictive

Assisted living communities often have rules and policies to govern their residents' lives. The rules might be a bit more restrictive, such as:

No pets
No overnight guests and visitors
Limited room for personalization

Request a copy of the rules and policies before moving into a senior living community in Fond du Lac. You can also talk to a resident or two to get senior housing advice on choosing a living option.

8. Complex Refund Policies

Avoid making any payments or moving in abruptly when reviewing different retirement communities. This is because the refund policies are often complicated. Consequently, you may lose a significant portion of any money you've paid upfront.

Review the refund policy carefully and get legal help if necessary. A major red flag you should be looking for is the lack of a free community tour. A tour can help you unlock the hidden senior living secrets of the community you're exploring.

9. Ratings May Not Be Available Online

Conducting research may not give you a full picture of the assisted living community. Ratings and reviews are often unavailable, meaning you should visit the community in person.

You can also check the company website for online reviews and testimonials from previous clients. This can help you make an informed decision when choosing retirement communities.

10. The Amenities and Services May be Below Par

According to the Census Bureau, about four million U.S. households have difficulty hosting their loved ones aged 65 or older. A retirement community in Fond du Lac may be everything your loved one needs as they age.

But the amenities and services may get overhyped. The pool, golf course, or gym may all look good on a brochure, but it doesn't mean they're functional. Ask about the usage rate of the amenities advertised by the retirement home and try out the features during your tour.

Learn the 10 Things Retirement Communities Won't Tell You Today

Understanding the 10 things retirement communities won't tell you is crucial in choosing a retirement home. You can gain valuable retirement community tips to help you or your loved one seamlessly transition to their new living environment.

LakeHouse Fond du Lac offers comprehensive services tailored to enhance your physical and mental well-being. From inclusive amenities to a health and wellness program, we curate our services to help our residents gain more independence.