Seniors are Re-thinking the Nursing Home Model…..

The corona virus pandemic has disrupted peoples lives and made many of us think about our future retirement plan. For some, who have chosen to move into senior housing communities, this option now seems less attractive. Nursing homes have been hit with thousands of fatalities before lockdowns and other measures could take place. And this uncertainty has big impacts in our decisions. The lack of privacy and independence in communal set ups have also to be considered when transitioning from independent home to senior assisted living.

According to a CNN article, many couples that were considering moving into senior communities are now changing their plans. “Kim Beckman, 64, and her husband, Mike, were ready to give up being homeowners in Victoria, Texas, and join a 55-plus community or rent in an independent living apartment building in northern Texas before Covid-19 hit. Now, they're considering buying an even bigger home because "if you're going to be in the house all the time, you might as well be comfortable," Beckman said.

In mid-August, more than 70,000 resident and staff members of nursing homes and large assisted living facilities have died of COVID-19. It’s almost one third of all fatalities in the US. Occupancy rates, in senior living facilities, are at its lowest in the 14 years since the tracking system has been created. Independent living has also been impacted but with less staggering numbers. From security protocols to social engagement and most important; transparency. There’s a lot to consider right now when making future living decisions. This process can be overwhelming and looking for professional assistance can help you to guide into the right path.