The world is witnessing a so-called “silver tsunami.” A significant portion of the baby boomer population reaches the age of 65. Over 70 million people are expected to reach this age group by 2030. As the elderly population grows, more people are looking for or planning to move into retirement and assisted living homes. Various factors influence this decision, ranging from community services to care programs and amenities.
One of the most important factors to consider is the location of the retirement community. Several people frequently make this decision based on the weather, proximity to loved ones, or other geographical preferences (coastal vs. mountainous). However, consider the pros and cons of moving into a suburban versus an urban assisted living community. In this article, you’ll learn about each option to make an informed decision.
Urban Setting
Large cities and towns with an urban landscape are home to a diverse variety of assisted living communities. Being a part of a large city translates into having access to more facilities, such as transportation, entertainment, shopping, and healthcare. This type of environment may be especially appealing to residents in assisted living who value their independence.
However, living in a large, fast-paced city as an elderly has some drawbacks. The cost of living in an assisted living facility may be significantly higher. Such areas are also likely to be crowded, polluted, chaotic, and have higher crime rates, causing distress and impacting the quality of life.
Suburban Setting
Suburban settings can be considered a middle ground between urban and rural settings. Their geographical location may provide the ideal compromise, as they are on the outskirts of a city but far enough away to live peacefully. With the city center not too far away, one can enjoy the advantages of city life on occasion.
Suburban assisted living communities may also be larger in terms of space and have lower fees. However, unlike cities, suburban communities lack a well-connected transportation network, so you may need a private vehicle to get around, although several assisted-living facilities do offer transportation services.
Rural Setting
Rural assisted living communities may be the most serene of all options, with picturesque landscapes and peaceful country settings. They’re also less crowded and have lower living expenses. On the other hand, their isolation from urban areas means that you or your loved ones may not have timely access to urgent medical care. There is also the risk of boredom due to a lack of entertainment and shopping options.
Remember that lifestyle preferences continue to evolve. As your loved ones get older, the lifestyle preferences they had when they were younger may seem unappealing. In their younger years, your older loved one may have thrived in an urban city’s fast-paced beat and culture.
They may now find solace in a slower-paced rural or suburban setting, where they can relax or explore nature. They may also yearn for a change of pace as they get older, having missed out on specific experiences in their youth.
Helping your loved ones make sense of these preferences is one of the first steps in selecting the most suitable assisted living community.
