Thanks for reminding us to keep the door open, Don. Those I've known who, in their 80s, moved into some variation of quasi-independent housing all thrived. Not having to worry about house stuff, or even making meals, was great. Recently, a recently widowed friend in her 90s moved into a senior apartment complex in California with a bar. 😀 I've been quizzing friends about their experiences for years, and got big thumbs up. This can be expensive, of course, but as my California friend said cheerfully, "I'm worth it!" She is, too.
I couldn't find a link to comment on the Eyes of a Child post, so I'll put thoughts here. It's a lovely story and reminds us to encourage wonder and its expression wherever we can, even for ourselves.
When my parents entered their 70s, they bought into a life-stage community with lots of amenities as well as access to higher levels of care as needed. My father passed away after a few years and I feel reassured that my mom is still well taken care of. I live thousands of miles away so I appreciate my parents’ foresight.
Eight years ago my wife and I followed our daughter when she moved out to the suburbs, and at her suggestion (after we had looked at a dozen houses, condos, or similar units that were far too old, needed a great deal of improvement, or were ridiculously priced) we visited and immediately bought a condo unit in a 55+ community. It has suited us well. The residents in the 100 houses range in age from 55 to 101, and all are active. I have noticed that about 10 percent of the units change hands annually, so we don't have time to get too tired of our neighbors.
Thanks for reminding us to keep the door open, Don. Those I've known who, in their 80s, moved into some variation of quasi-independent housing all thrived. Not having to worry about house stuff, or even making meals, was great. Recently, a recently widowed friend in her 90s moved into a senior apartment complex in California with a bar. 😀 I've been quizzing friends about their experiences for years, and got big thumbs up. This can be expensive, of course, but as my California friend said cheerfully, "I'm worth it!" She is, too.
Good to know!
I couldn't find a link to comment on the Eyes of a Child post, so I'll put thoughts here. It's a lovely story and reminds us to encourage wonder and its expression wherever we can, even for ourselves.
Thanks, Wendl!
Charming story! I’m encouraging my grandchildren to write, too!
When my parents entered their 70s, they bought into a life-stage community with lots of amenities as well as access to higher levels of care as needed. My father passed away after a few years and I feel reassured that my mom is still well taken care of. I live thousands of miles away so I appreciate my parents’ foresight.
And that's exactly how it's supposed to work when it works. So glad your parents' planning paid off.
Eight years ago my wife and I followed our daughter when she moved out to the suburbs, and at her suggestion (after we had looked at a dozen houses, condos, or similar units that were far too old, needed a great deal of improvement, or were ridiculously priced) we visited and immediately bought a condo unit in a 55+ community. It has suited us well. The residents in the 100 houses range in age from 55 to 101, and all are active. I have noticed that about 10 percent of the units change hands annually, so we don't have time to get too tired of our neighbors.
Bill, that sounds like a great win-win. Congratulations!
Lovely post, Don
Wait, that comment was for the childhood writing post. This one is very worthwhile too!