Should I stay or should I go now?
Should I stay, or should I go now?
If I go there will be trouble
And if I stay it will be double
So come on and let me know …
Should I stay or should I go now?
The lyrics, written by a 1980s rock band, capture the dilemma that many of us face today as we look at options for our future. I am pretty sure this is not what the band—The Clash—had in mind, but it is so applicable to today’s situation for many of us.
This is the top question when contemplating a move to Woodlands. Should I stay in my current home, or should I move now? There are a lot of things to consider when faced with that choice. And no decision really is a decision of sorts, right? No decision means you are not planning for your future.
Retirement can be a time for relaxation, exploration and enjoyment. But not all of us look forward to the changes that will come with this time of our life. Everyone’s retirement is not the same, and the expectations we each have are unique to us and our current situation. There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to the question of staying in our current home or going to a retirement community. Let’s investigate the pros and cons of moving to Woodlands vs. staying in your current home and see which is best for you.
Staying Put
For many, staying in your current home has many perceived benefits, but there are two sides to every story. There are also negatives to staying in your home.
Pros
Comfort and familiarity – Your home is your haven, surrounded by comforting memories and a familiar routine and environment.
Independence – Staying in your own home could provide a greater sense of independence. You can maintain your daily routines and make decisions without restrictions as long as you are able.
Neighborhood – If you’ve built strong connections with your neighbors and the local community over the years, staying at home allows you to maintain those social bonds.
Cost control – If you don’t fear the risks of needing future healthcare, there is a chance that staying in your home could be less expensive than moving to a community.
Cons
Maintenance and upkeep – As you age, maintaining a home can become increasingly challenging. Home maintenance, repairs and yardwork can become burdensome and costly. So, staying at home has costs even when your mortgage is paid off … and more potential costs to modify your home if physical or cognitive needs arise.
Social isolation – Staying at home might lead to social isolation, especially if your neighborhood lacks social activities or if your friends and neighbors move or pass away. Increasing physical limitations as aging occurs keeps us from leaving our homes.
Limited access to and increasing cost of healthcare services – If your health deteriorates, it may be challenging to access immediate medical care and assistance when needed, leading to potential delays in receiving healthcare services. The costs of care continue to rise every year as the availability of the care is declining.
Moving to Woodlands
Moving to a retirement community is something worth considering. Should you go now?
Pros
Healthcare services – Woodlands is equipped to provide a range of medical services on site, including assisted living and memory care. This ensures that you have access to healthcare as needed and at a lower cost to protect your assets.
Social engagement – Woodlands offers numerous social activities and programs to keep residents engaged and active, reducing the risk of social isolation. Studies have shown that residents in a retirement community live longer, happier and heathier lives.
Maintenance-free living – You can enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle without worrying about house repairs, lawn care or other home-related responsibilities and the costs associated with those.
Safety and security (and some fun) – Woodlands, a LifeCare Community, provides peace of mind to you and your family. Knowing that future care at a lower cost is available, while you enjoy a robust roster of daily activities and delicious dining surrounded by caring staff and interesting neighbors, is a gift to yourself and those that care about you.
Cons or not?
Cost – While moving into Woodlands involves paying an entrance fee and monthly fee, remember that you are paying not only for housing but also for services and amenities. You also have security knowing that you have a home even if your healthcare needs change or you outlive your financial resources.
Loss of independence – Retirement communities like Woodlands actually help residents maintain independence and their ability to make decisions on their own. Woodlands is full of vibrant residents, living life to the fullest every day.
Adjustment period – Transitioning to a new living arrangement can be challenging, and it may take time to adapt to the lifestyle and community living. This is true of any change, and the move to Woodlands offers enough benefits to make an adjustment worth it. Supportive staff and new neighbors help minimize the adjustment so that new residents quickly are in the swing of things.
Less privacy – Living in a retirement community means sharing spaces and common areas with other residents, which may result in less privacy compared to living in your own home. But, if you’ve been lonely or isolated, this is not really a con, is it? From croquet on the lawn with friends, happy hour in the bistro or yoga in the fitness room to educational talks and speakers, there are many enjoyable ways to be engaged and stay well in body, mind and spirit.
Choosing what is right for you
The choice between staying at home for retirement or moving to Woodlands is a deeply personal decision. Your unique circumstances, financial situation, health and social preferences will play a significant role in making this choice. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully. Consult with family, friends and financial advisors. Plan your visit to Woodlands to learn more. We’d like to help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs and desires. Then you can determine: Should you go, or should you stay?
You can reach Juliette at Woodlands by calling 304-697-1620 or visiting our contact page to schedule your visit.