The Golden Years

My lovely mom on her 74th birthday.

I'm glad I didn't have to make a choice for my mom to go to a retirement community, at the age of 74, she is/we are fortunate enough that she's still able to make sane, independent decisions - mostly with our support of course.

As we grow older buying a retirement home can be one of the most important decisions to make. It should be a step that assures us of contentment and dignity in the years ahead. The "Golden Years" should be just that, years of enjoying the rewards of a lifetime of hard work. This is the time when adults get time for fun - I believe!

Unfortunately though, most of the retirees tend to put off even thinking about the move to an old age home, simply because they can’t face the fact that they're getting older.

My peace of mind: My mom has suffered two strokes and has a history of several chronic health issues. Retirement communities are very good about employing staff with health care experience. Staff members are on site to help the residents bathe, administer medications and check blood pressure, pulse rate and other vital signs, making sure that health comes first for their residents.

Abundant social opportunities and activities: Although you are retired, there are plenty of things to do. Many active retirement communities have activities, including anything from aerobics, bingo, golf to tennis. Most retirement communities also host tournaments and other social events for the residents to interact with each other.

Healthy delicious meals every day: At least one meal per day is usually included in the monthly fee. Residents might enjoy breakfast and lunch in their apartment, but having a dining room with ample selection of nutritious meals every evening, means no worries about what to prepare for dinner. Dietary staff at the retirement home ensures that seniors always have nutritious, freshly prepared meals every day. Most retirement residences can accommodate special diets as well.

Fitness and wellness: It’s becoming a standard across the nation to include a fitness center, spa facilities and even hair-salons on the premises. You’ll not only enjoy fitness tailored to your needs as a senior but you may even meet a few new friends.  

Transportation services: Trips to the mall, grocery shopping and medical appointments are standard offerings within most senior living communities. 

Security: A well-run retirement complex will prioritise the security of its residents.

Family concerns: I feel that I may not always be there in an emergency, whereas in a retirement complex someone is on call 24 hours a day - some peace of mind there.

Remember – at this stage of your (old-age) life, the greatest gift a parent can give a child is that parent’s own independence.

Here's wishing the best of luck, love and laughter to my mom - Nonzwakazi Rapitsi. Well done to a brave and independent step you took. We will always be there for support all the time.

Comment are always welcome, please take a moment to share your experiences and gratitude with us below or by email.