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Preparing for your future in senior living

Choosing a senior living community for yourself or a loved one can be overwhelming. From exploring senior living options to navigating the waitlist process, there are many aspects to consider. This blog will explore how to prepare for your future in senior living, and what to consider today to prepare for your tomorrow.

What is a senior living community?

Senior living communities provide an environment for seniors to remain independent while providing varying levels of care if needed. They offer a multitude of support services including assistance with activities of daily living (i.e., bathing, dressing, personal hygiene, etc.), access to licensed nurses, social activities, fitness opportunities, prepared meals and more, depending on the features of the community.

Capital Manor offers an array of services, amenities and activities for residents. We prioritize creating a living environment that is fun, energizing and fulfilling. Amenities include housekeeping, a fitness center, community gardens, a woodshop, a ceramics studio, dining options, on-site hair and nail salon, scheduled transportation and more.

It’s never too early to begin looking for senior living that fits your lifestyle! The process of finding senior living options and getting through the waitlist process can take months to years, depending on the community, which is much longer than most prospective residents expect.

Choosing a senior living community

Choosing a senior living community can be a time-consuming and emotional process. Finding the right place is a personal decision that takes time and consideration.

Many prospective residents are surprised by the waitlist time at senior living communities, and at Capital Manor, the waitlist can be up to five years for select units. To optimize your number of independent living options, we recommend touring communities well in advance of your estimated move-in time.

During your journey to finding the right senior living community, you will likely tour a handful of communities. Don’t be nervous to ask questions throughout your tours, such as:

  • What access to medical care is offered?
  • What meal options are available?
  • What support services are offered if needed?
  • How are staff trained?
  • How do staff make the community feel like home?

Your tour should feel personalized and leave you with no questions unanswered. Bringing a family member on the tour to provide an outside perspective may also be helpful. Family is welcome on tours at Capital Manor. Capital Manor offers events for prospective residents to visit the community, which may also help you get a feel for different senior living communities.

Regardless of where you tour, you should leave with an understanding of the senior living campus and all it offers to residents.

Preparing for senior living while on the waitlist

As the baby boomer generation is now looking for senior living community options, 10 years is not too early to join the waitlist at Capital Manor. Reports estimate that approximately 69% of baby boomers are considering a move to senior living communities, as opposed to senior housing. Getting on waitlists early is crucial to having as much choice as possible.

While on the waitlist at a senior living community, it is a great time to simplify your belongings and take time reduce your clutter. Knowing a fresh start is coming, slowing going through your belongings and deciding what items to donate, what items to gift to friends or family and what items to keep will make your moving process less stressful.

Additionally, while on the waitlist, it is a great time to save for your future at a senior living community. Capital Manor offers a cost calculator that allows you to compare your current home payment to a community living payment.

Contact Capital Manor for senior living in Salem, Oregon

We know this process can be overwhelming, and our team is here to help you navigate your senior living options and determine if Capital Manor is the right senior living option for you or your loved one. Contact us today to schedule your tour and to learn more!