Retirement is still a fairly young practice in the grand scheme of history. With so many leaving the workforce, choosing a place to spend the latter years is becoming more and more grueling. Elderly individuals with options are finding sub par living arrangements and a genuine lack of amenities.
Largely due to the low supply and high demand of communities, designers are now considering the desires the vast amounts of baby-boomers who are ready to enjoy the golden years. Their requests are unique to any other group, due to a mix of aging concerns along with a yearning for resort style living.
But what are the most important things retirees are looking for? Let’s take a look.
Friends (Active Community)
There is such a stigma on retirement communities as being full of crotchety old people who stay in their homes or rooms complaining about the weather. The sad part is that those retiring are afraid that the rumors are true (and sometimes can be).
Not because there aren’t people who want to connect, but the space isn’t set up for elderly interaction.
To give potential residents what they want, provide large (indoor and outdoor) multipurpose spaces with plenty of “coffee table” style seating to promote conversation.
Luxury
While there are high end retirement communities available for the affluent, you’ll be hard pressed to find the average post work individual who wants to live in a community without a few bells and whistles.
Nice furniture, quality seating, and ornate trim are a good start. Activities will also be included in their scrutiny. Ensuring designated and high quality areas for eating, socializing and gaming will be looked over in detail.
Practical Medical Options
While their fun may just be getting started, you’ll find this aging community very self aware in terms of potential needs down the road. A great medical facility will go a long way in convincing them to join you, but other design features will seal the deal.
Accessibility problems plague the majority of the elderly population. Making the entire facility accessible without losing style is a challenge, but one that will increase the number of residents at a premium rate.
Think of things like wheelchair ramps, stair lifts, large elevators, and other choices that will make aging easier for all community members. Another large concern is a person’s ability to live unassisted for as long as possible. To help with this, use specialty hardware and appliances that are less cumbersome for anyone without full use of their body.
SOSS Door Hardware has invented an ADA compliant entry system that can be opened by almost all disabled or low mobility individuals. It’s called the UltraLatch and requires no wrist rotation in order to access a secured door. Click here to find a dealer near you.