June 14, 2023
Making a move to a Life Plan Community (LPC) is an important decision and the idea can sometimes be challenging to wrap your mind around. In fact, many people do not fully understand what a Life Plan Community even is when they begin to think about the next chapter in their lives.
A Life Plan Community, such as Kendal at Lexington, is a residential community designed to cater to the needs and preferences of older adults. Life Plan Communities typically provide Independent Living units such as cottages and apartments, where residents can maintain an active lifestyle. Additionally, they offer a continuum of care services, including Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Care, ensuring that residents can seamlessly transition to higher levels of care if and when needed. Kendal at Lexington also offers various amenities such as dining options, fitness centers, recreational activities, social events and access to healthcare services.
All that said, making the move into an LPC, is an important one, and it comes with plenty of questions and often folks wait longer than they should to make the move into a vibrant community like Kendal at Lexington.
According to research from AARP, 80% of older adults would prefer to “age in place” in their own homes. Often, however, a situation arises when a move has to be made, with precious little time, little or no control over where to go, and less-than-ideal options.
Moving By Choice, Not Necessity
But beyond a crisis such as a bad fall, stroke or any number of events that could force a person from their home into the hospital, rehabilitation and a more permanent care environment, there are compelling reasons for independent older adults to move to a Life Plan Community as a matter of choice, not necessity.
Defined as requiring no assistance with activities of daily living or other personal functions, Independent Living in a quality Life Plan Community at Kendal at Lexington can literally open the door to a more fulfilling life. In fact, most residents at Kendal at Lexington only regret that they did not move in sooner.
So, why are so many reluctant to make the move?
Countering the Objections
Let’s explore five common objections to moving to a Life Plan Community, followed by corresponding counterpoints highlighting the considerable benefits.
- I’ll Lose My Independence
This is a top concern about moving to a community. It is also a major misconception. Residents at Kendal at Lexington actually gain freedom and independence…freedom from household chores and responsibilities, freedom from cooking three meals a day, freedom to join a myriad of activities, explore new hobbies and make new friends. Independent Living at Kendal means doing everything you did before, going everywhere you want, whenever and with whomever you want. It also means living in beautiful, private accommodations without the hassles of home maintenance. It’s about the want to’s, not the have to’s. - I’m Not Old or Unhealthy Enough
The best Life Plan Communities are thriving campuses for healthy, energetic adults who crave adventure, discovery and self-driven activities and initiatives. Joining the Kendal at Lexington community at a younger, healthier age and stage is the ideal time to gain maximum benefit from the endless possibilities. - Moving Is a Such a Headache
Undoubtedly, the physical process of moving a houseful of possessions, deciding what to keep and what to leave behind, can be as taxing as the emotional burden. Many people put off downsizing simply because it’s such an overwhelming task. Realistically, however, the contents of one’s home will eventually have to be cleared out, and the job often falls to adult children or other loved ones who may not have time or opportunity in their busy lives to take it on. Why not spare them the onus while you’re present to decide where things go and to whom, and you’re healthy enough to join forces with them? Sooner is much easier than later. - I Can’t Afford It
One of the most surprising discoveries made by those who’ve researched or moved to a Life Plan Community is that it’s actually more cost-effective than remaining in their own home, especially when care needs change. In the absence of unpaid caregivers (overwhelmed spouses, adult children), paid at-home care can be exorbitant for those who need daily or even semi-regular care. Implements such as chair lifts and renovations for greater safety in the home are also quite costly. Even without significant care requirements, the multiple line items in a household budget often add up to more than what it costs to live in a retirement community, not to mention unexpected repair and maintenance expenses. Perhaps most compelling is the peace of mind provided by a community with known costs and a continuum of care for the rest of one’s life, no matter how their needs may change. Priceless. - Isn’t That Where People Go to Die?
The link between longevity and an active lifestyle with essential social connections is well-documented. Many people who remain in their own homes become increasingly isolated, literally risking their lives, given the effects of social isolation on life expectancy. Not only does Kendal at Lexington offer ample opportunities for robust activity and socialization, the safety, security and support available to all residents can lengthen their lives. Life is still on their terms, but loving, caring staff members are there to ensure they live it to the fullest.
Kendal at Lexington is here to help you navigate the enriching journey into independent senior living.
Contact us today for a tour or to speak with a member of our team.