Myths vs. Truth of Senior Living
Moving into a senior living community comes with many questions, and if left unaddressed, these questions can turn into genuine concerns or even deter older adults from moving in.
At Peaceful Pines Senior Living, we want to answer all these lingering questions. We believe that residents and their families should be well-informed about the realities of senior living, so that we can leave any misconceptions behind and offer you peace of mind. We are here to empower you and help you thrive; so, let’s dive in and separate the myths from the truths of senior living.
Myth: I will lose my independence.
Truth: At Peaceful Pines, one of our primary goals in tailoring your care plan is to preserve the independence you have. We want to offer you support and reliability without invading your privacy or interrupting your day. You can continue to enjoy the small town, South Dakota living in your own way, on your own time! In fact, many people find that letting go of home maintenance allows for more time to be spent doing the things they love most.
Additionally, we offer garages for residents, allowing them to keep their vehicles with us and continue to visit family, pick up groceries, or embark on personal adventures.
Peaceful Pines also welcomes your pet! We know that furry friends can brighten your life and promote independence, so we are glad to welcome you and your companions. Any additional pet fees, acceptable breeds, and pet health requirements can be discussed with our team.
Myth: The food will be poor quality.
Truth: Peaceful Pines works diligently to provide a well-balanced diet, serving freshly prepared meals and snacks daily. Our kitchen staff are courteous, helpful, and exceptionally hard working! As part of your supportive care, we happily cater to your specific needs, such as allergies or diet restrictions. We understand that a healthy body is connected to healthy aging, and one of the best places to encourage wellness is through what a person eats. The Directors of Dining at Peaceful Pines create menus that are varied, fun, and familiar, so you can trust that each meal is a delicious home-cooked meal.
Myth: I will be bored all day because none of the people are like me.
Truth: Peaceful Pines Senior Living communities were created to destroy this myth! Each community hosts a variety of activities, including book clubs, crafts, board games, volunteer opportunities, movie showings, group exercise classes, Bible studies, happy hours, gardening, educational seminars, and community outings. Our Life Enrichment Coordinators will help you pursue social, physical, intellectual, mental, and spiritual wellness by facilitating engaging activities and events.
At Peaceful Pines, you’ll also have the opportunity to meet like-minded people. We believe that you can embrace the chance to connect with others and make friends at every stage of life. We think our activities could be the icebreaker you need to make those connections. We hope that by living near other older adults, you can discover a sense of belonging and understanding.
Myth: My son/daughter wants to move me here because they don’t want to deal with me.
When a loved one needs more care than a family member can consistently provide, exhaustion can occur, and relationships between an older parent and their children and grandchildren may become strained. Moving to a senior living community can offer you and your loved ones relief; you can obtain the consistency of individualized, supportive care, and your loved ones can connect with you in much more relaxed ways.
At Peaceful Pines, residents’ families are encouraged to engage with their loved ones. Our communities host regular events for residents and their families, like holiday suppers, barbeques and summer parties, dances, sports watch parties, and plenty of seasonally themed events. Living in a senior living community and having the chance to participate in events like these and spend quality time together benefits relationships with your family.
Myth: I’m going to run out of money because it’s too expensive.
Truth: The cost of senior living may be more similar to the cost of living at home than you realize. Even if your home is paid off, consider the insurance, taxes, utility services, and other maintenance costs that homeownership entails, as these expenses can add up quickly. Check out Peaceful Pines’ Cost Comparison Guide; this worksheet can help you list your current expenses of living at home and compare what your expenses may be if you lived at Peaceful Pines.
In addition to the cost of your room and care, living at Peaceful Pines also includes access to amenities such as an exercise room, hair salon, movie theater, and a pleasant outdoor area for grilling and games.
Myth: I shouldn’t move until I need a lot of help taking care of myself.
Truth: Many people hold the misconception that senior living communities are only for people who need constant care. However, senior living is meant to adapt to your needs throughout your retirement. You can live a carefree lifestyle, be surrounded by engaging activities, and spend quality time with your family.
Then, as you age, you may desire more supportive care. Moving to a senior living community before your needs increase can make the transition easier; if you wait too long to move, you risk a sudden health crisis or feeling like you have lost control of your choices because you are rushed into seeking additional care quickly.
It’s Time to Live Life & Love Life at Peaceful Pines
At Peaceful Pines, we offer you assurance and clarity while helping you create a lifestyle you’ll love. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a tour of any of our communities across South Dakota, please visit our website and reach out today!
