April 29, 2021
Why Should I Move into Kendal Now?
If you’re considering moving to a Life Plan Community, doing it sooner rather than later can be a smart move. Life Plan Communities (or CCRCs) offer peace of mind when it comes to planning for care later in life. Like us, they offer many amenities and services to enjoy now.
They are an ideal living option for independent seniors who want to age in place, but may not be close to family or support services. It’s also a great option for active seniors ready to shed the burden and expense of home upkeep, giving them more time to pursue new interests and develop new friendships that will carry them through their later years.
According to Jessica Buhler, Director of Marketing for Kendal at Lexington, “In 2020, the average age at move-in of the 22 new residents was 72. That age trends lower than many other communities like ours. In addition to providing more comfort in knowing that they are likely to be approved for admission, moving in younger also gives them more time getting the most out of the community.”
Making a move to Kendal provides many benefits:
Wellness
Being part of a community is a healthy thing to do. Several research studies found social isolation and loneliness in older adults is linked to physical and mental conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, a weakened immune system, anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline.
In addition to the social wellness aspect, living in a Life Plan Community not only provides the continuum of care, but offers all types of programs developed by trained staff to enhance physical activity, fitness, and mobility. Coupled with nutritious and delicious meals, (our residents rave about Kendal’s culinary staff) quality of life is greatly enhanced when compared to those living alone without these supportive services.
Community
Moving to Kendal at Lexington means having a ready network of energetic and involved neighbors and friends. With an active resident’s association and designated committees, Kendal College and other engaging events and presentations, the fitness and wellness center, a campus-wide web-based communication system, and engaged staff, it’s easy to form new friendships and discover new interests.
Kendal’s model is a resident-driven community where the residents plan programs and activities that interest them, rather than a concierge model where standard activities are slated.
Whether it’s an art gathering, nature walk, book club, or round of golf, it isn’t difficult to find someone with a similar interest, or willing to explore a new activity with you. Many of our residents also volunteer in the community or take advantage of nearby university offerings.
Most will tell you there’s no shortage of interesting things to do and explore. This type of community involvement further enhances the social and cognitive wellness aspect.
Peace of Mind
As part of the continuing care plan, moving into a Life Plan Community starts with residential independent living. Continuing care contracts typically stipulate that new residents must be able to live independently when they first move into the community, and Kendal is no exception. Approval for residency begins with a medical review as part of the application process.
Many residents admit that making the decision to live at Kendal wasn’t easy initially, but then realized it was one of the best decisions they made. They enjoy knowing they have easy access to many amenities and services, everything from a well-equipped fitness center and pool to skilled nursing care when the need arises. They find comfort knowing they can relieve their children and other family members of having make serious decisions and being responsible for them when they need higher levels of care.
Easier Transition
Moving several states away or even form down the street isn’t easy for anyone. It takes preparation and planning to relocate. Planning for a move to a retirement community usually means downsizing, selling a home, and other major adjustments that take time and energy. Making the move while still healthy and active allows you to have more control over the process, rather than having those decisions made for you when your health is failing.
Another important aspect of moving in sooner than later is the opportunity to fully enjoy the lifestyle, interaction, and freedom of the community model. Whether it’s decorating your new cottage or apartment to your liking or finding a new workout partner, this phase of life can be as exciting and satisfying as any other.
If you still question why you should move to Kendal at Lexington sooner than later, perhaps you should ask, why not? There is a campus full of residents ready to welcome you for a visit and answer any question you have about living here. The marketing team can hold virtual and in-person visits so you can fully explore all that Kendal at Lexington has to offer.