If you’re nearing retirement, you might be considering a move to a Life Plan Community (LPC). That’s great! In addition to fostering strong social connections, LPCs offer a variety of housing options, amenities, and support services to enable your dream retirement lifestyle.
Did you know? Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, has been consistently ranked as a top retirement destination, with an impressive 17 life plan communities to choose from.
But choosing the right Life Plan Community for you is a big decision, and you might want help from family or friends to weigh your options. Don’t be afraid to involve loved ones in your decision-making process. While the decision is yours, good collaboration and thoughtful input from others can provide the support you need to find your ideal retirement community without getting overwhelmed.
Keep reading for guidance on how to make this important decision together—and get ready to love your new home!
Tips for Collaborative Decision Making
Including other people in your decision-making process can help you stay organized and informed, while building confidence you’re making the best choice for you. Here are a few tips for involving others without getting off track or giving up your autonomy.
Start the Conversation with Openness
The most important thing to remember when choosing a Life Plan Community together is that the process is a partnership between you and your loved ones. Approach conversations with open minds, and hear each other out when communicating your goals, concerns, and your non-negotiables.
Your family and friends care about you and your well-being, so take their input seriously. But remember: The final decision is yours and should ultimately reflect your needs and values.
Define What Independence Means to You
Maintaining independence during your retirement years is likely a top priority—are you prepared to communicate what independence means to you?
It might mean a low-maintenance residence, access to daily activities you enjoy, and a strong social circle. Perhaps it means not having to worry about where to find quality healthcare when you need it. Or maybe it means convenient support services to make life easier and more comfortable. Clearly articulate to your family and friends what independence means to you and what you want that to look like in your new community.
However you envision your independence during retirement, a Life Plan Community can turn dreams into reality. From resort-style amenities to full-service healthcare facilities to versatile housing options, the LPC you choose will adapt to your changing needs.
Make a List of Shared Priorities
Staying organized will help your decision-making process go smoothly. Work with your family to make a list of your shared priorities. Specific amenities (for example, a pool, nature trails, or an art studio), on-site medical services, easily accessible restaurants or shopping, an inclusive culture, and more: What do you all agree is important in your retirement community?
Group your priorities as either non-negotiables or nice-to-haves, and rank them in order of importance. As you visit and evaluate different LPCs, make note of how many items a particular community provides. If your non-negotiables are covered and there are a few nice-to-haves, that Life Plan Community is a good contender for your next home.
Explore the Options—Together
Once you have ranked your priorities and selected your potential LPCs, it’s time to use your evaluation skills to determine which communities have real potential. Rally your loved ones, and have fun exploring!
Visit the Community as a Family
The best way to get a feel for the daily experience of any Life Plan Community is to visit in person. Make your LPC visits a family outing and encourage everyone to participate in the process. Different people think of different questions to ask, which can provide important insights to guide your search. When you are ready to make a decision, you’ll have a well-rounded view of your options.
Meet the Team and Talk to Current Residents
When you visit a retirement community, take an active role in collecting information. Strike up conversations with staff and current residents to learn about their day-to-day experiences. Go to an event or participate in an on-campus activity.
Pro Tip: Let yourself be present so you get a good sense of the overall community atmosphere. Note pros and cons (based on what’s important to you) as you explore.
The more you immerse yourself in the experience, the better you can assess if the community fits your vision of a fulfilling retirement.
Respect Autonomy
Adult children of those nearing retirement are often involved in the LPC selection process. With compassion, patience, and good planning, helping their parents choose a retirement community can be a rewarding family activity.
The key is for children to respect their parents’ autonomy. They should aim to be encouraging and supportive rather than patronizing. They can provide emotional and practical support while still allowing their parents to make the final decision about where and how to live out their retirement years.
Use Outside Resources to Support the Process
Beyond family and friends, you can also enlist help from neutral third parties. Some people find it useful to get professional advice from a financial advisor, care manager, social worker, or attorney (as a few examples) when planning their retirement move.
If you and your loved ones are split on which community is right for you, an unbiased outside opinion can be an effective tie breaker.
A Family Affair: Choosing Your Ideal Life Plan Community
When it’s time to decide how you want to spend your retirement years, consider sharing the experience with your loved ones up to your own comfort level. Incorporating multiple perspectives in your selection process can invite honest conversations and ensure you don’t overlook any important aspects of finding the best Life Plan Community for you.
Take the opportunity to visit LPCs together, meet residents, and immerse yourself in what makes each community unique. When you’re enjoying your dream retirement life, you’ll be glad you did!